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Andover Public Library (Andover, Maine) facts for kids

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Andover Public Library
AndoverME Library.jpg
Country United States
Type Public
Established 1899
Location 46 Church Street, Andover, Maine
Collection
Size 12,000
Access and use
Circulation 3,800
Population served 864
Other information
Budget $27,807
Director Janet Farrington
Staff 2
Andover Public Library
Andover Public Library (Andover, Maine) is located in Maine
Andover Public Library (Andover, Maine)
Location in Maine
Andover Public Library (Andover, Maine) is located in the United States
Andover Public Library (Andover, Maine)
Location in the United States
Location 46 Church Street, Andover, Maine
Built 1899
Architectural style Octagon Mode
NRHP reference No. 81000103
Added to NRHP January 27, 1981

The Andover Public Library is a special building located on Church Street in Andover, Maine, United States. It's not just a place to borrow books; it's also a historic landmark! This library is famous because its main part is shaped like an octagon, which is a shape with eight sides. It's one of only two buildings like it in Maine that used to be a church.

A Library's Journey

The idea for a library in Andover started a long time ago. As early as 1795, there was a private library in town. People paid a fee to use its books.

From Private to Public

Later, in 1891, a group called the Andover Public Library Association was formed. This group worked to create a library that everyone could use, funded by the public. At first, the library was in a room at the Andover Town Hall.

A New Home

In 1943, the library found its current home. It moved into a building that used to belong to a church group. This building is very unique because of its eight-sided shape. It was likely one of the last buildings in Maine built with inspiration from Orson Squire Fowler. He was a person in the 1800s who really liked octagonal buildings.

A Historic Landmark

Because of its special design and history, the Andover Public Library building was added to the National Register of Historic Places on January 27, 1981. This means it's recognized as an important historical place.

The Building's Unique Look

The main part of the library building is made of wood. It sits on a strong granite foundation. The roof is sloped and covered with asphalt shingles.

Octagonal Shape

While it's mostly octagonal, the front and back parts are a bit longer. This makes the building look somewhat rectangular overall. Its outside walls are covered with wooden clapboards. There's also a brick chimney at the back.

Welcoming Entrance

At the front, there's a small entrance area that sticks out. The door is protected by a gabled portico. This is like a small porch roof supported by decorative brackets, making the entrance look inviting.

What the Library Offers

Today, the Andover Public Library is open four days a week. It provides many useful services for the community.

  • You can use the internet there.
  • They have free Wi-Fi, so you can connect your own devices.
  • You can also access many online databases. These databases offer lots of information for school projects or just for fun.

See also

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