Andover Public Library (Andover, Maine) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Andover Public Library |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| 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
|
|
 Location in 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.
Contents
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
