On July 5th, 2025, the MML held an Anniversary Celebration event to mark 10 years since the Library began operating as a nonprofit after losing most of its funding. The event commemorated the tireless efforts of volunteers to keep MML’s doors open and the progress the Library has made over the past decade. The following timelines, photos, and videos were shared at the celebration and help tell the story of the Library’s journey over the past 10 years and beyond.

To see photos of the Anniversary Celebration event, click here or scroll to the bottom of this page. We hope you enjoy.

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MML’s Journey (2015-2025)

In 2015, Millinocket Memorial Library (MML) was at risk of closing its doors. But thanks to the Friends of MML and the efforts of dedicated volunteers and community members, the Library was not only saved—it was reimagined. Over the past decade, MML has transformed: we’ve opened a gear library, completed a major building renovation, hosted thousands of community programs, and built impactful partnerships. Today, the possibilities are limitless—but our mission endures: to enrich lives, inspire imaginations, and empower community. Click on the timeline below to enlarge it.

Friends of MML take the lead (2014-2016)

Between 2014 and 2016, the Friends of MML stepped up in a time of uncertainty to lead the Library through a critical transition. In 2015, they assumed responsibility for operations and launched tireless fundraising efforts to keep MML’s doors open. Their work re-energized community support and laid the foundation for the Library’s future, including the formation of its first Board of Directors. This collection of newspaper articles highlights the dedication and impact of the Friends during this pivotal time. Special thanks to Esther Gass for assembling and preserving these pieces of our story. Click on the photo board below to enlarge it.

Library Centennial Renovation Photo Board (click to enlarge)

In 2017, the Library launched a capital campaign to fund the Library Centennial Renovation—an ambitious $2 million project to modernize and improve the building. Key upgrades included relocating the Children’s Room to the main floor, creating an accessible front entrance, adding meeting rooms and computer access, and installing more energy-efficient heating and cooling systems. These changes significantly enhanced the Library’s accessibility, functionality, sustainability, and adaptability, ensuring the space can better serve the evolving needs of our community—both now and into the future. Click on the photo board below to enlarge it.

MML Through the Years

The images below are a selection of photos from the Library’s early history—from its founding in 1919 through the opening of the new building in 1963 and into the 1990s. While this collection offers a glimpse into the past, there are many gaps. If you have historical photos of the Library, we’d love for you to share them with us! Click on the photo board below to enlarge it.

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Video: Reflections on The Library

Video: Excerpts from James McLean Interview

Video: Maine Libraries- The Third Place

“Maine Libraries: The Third Place” is a video created by the Maine State Library for Maine’s Bicentennial in 2020, featuring the story of Millinocket Memorial Library’s resurgence. It is currently not publicly available online, but if you would like to view it, please email the Library Director at director@millinocketlib.org.

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Photos from the Anniversary Celebration

Here are a few photos from MML’s July 5th, 2025 “Anniversary Celebration”, taken by Ross Knowlton. Click on any photo to enlarge it.