Donors’ gifts enhance library
Staff photo/Kathy McCarty
A LOVE OF READING, inspired by family and teachers, eventually led to Chris Morton’s earning an English writing degree from UMPI and eventually to his writing his first book, “You Kids Quit Pooping on the Lawn” — a collection of short essays based on his own experiences with family and friends.
Morton, who was raised in Masardis, was at a book signing at the Ashland Community Library April 11, where he had an opportunity to catch up with old friends and make new ones, with photo ops offered for anyone interested in mugging with Chris for the camera. Pictured from left are teacher Natalie Smith and Morton. Smith was quick to point out she helped Morton learn how to read when she had him as a student in third grade and that she’s very proud of him and looks forward to reading his book. Receptions and book-signing events are planned for Morton at UMPI’s library on April 30 at 6:30 p.m. and May 1 at the Presque Isle library beginning at 6 p.m.
By Kathy McCarty
PRESQUE ISLE — The Mark & Emily Turner Memorial Library, located at 39 Second St., is the recipient of yet another generous donation of $25,000 by Mary Smith, whose $1 million donation made the construction of the library’s new wing possible last year.
“The library is pleased to accept the $25,000 donation from Mary Smith to the Library Board of Trustees Charitable Trust Fund,” said Librarian Sonja Plummer-Morgan.
The funds will be used for interior improvements not covered in the expansion process.
“This gift is to initiate interior design planning for facilitating the comfort and flow of library patrons. Mary’s goal is to work with the community, its library staff and trustees, as well as professional designers to bring the warm and vibrant colors of Aroostook County to the facility’s interior,” Plummer-Morgan said.
According to Plummer-Morgan, this team will work together to invest the funds raised for library furnishings by the community, augmented by additional forthcoming donations, to offer patrons “quality, comfortable and beautiful furniture for reading, research and community social interaction.”
“The design team hopes to use Maine-made furniture,” she said.
Library Trustee Chair Nicole Cote expressed her appreciation, “We are constantly amazed at the generosity and enthusiasm of Mary Smith and other contributors such as the Gauvins (Raynold and Sandra). Our heartfelt thanks go out to all those who have made donations to the library for their support.”
Cote said donations such as Smith’s reflect the giving nature of Aroostook County people and a desire to make life better for others.
“Such gifts are the very essence of community building and will benefit our library patrons for years to come,” said Cote.
Library Trustee Louise Hamlin was grateful to Smith for such a thoughtful gift to the library.
“I would like to express heartfelt gratitude to Mary Smith and the Gauvins for their generous donations and continued involvement in the ongoing improvements to the Mark & Emily Turner Memorial Library,” said Hamlin.
The scope of the project encompasses the entire library.
“In addition to Mary Smith’s planning donation, Ray and Sandy Gauvin have stepped up with generous funding pledges for a dedicated teen center on the third floor of the library. This gift follows the Gauvins’ donation of a commissioned series of oil paintings by local artist Chester Gage, of Caribou, titled ‘Maple Sugaring’ on permanent display at the library,” said Plummer-Morgan.
The Gauvins and Smith share a similar vision.
“The Gauvins share Mary’s vision of a library that meets the usage needs of its patrons, respecting environmental impact and local beauty, and offering a warm and comfortable ambiance,” said Plummer-Morgan.
Plummer-Morgan said Smith, the design team and the Gauvins are working to “create a library presence that will offer lasting beauty and value for the community of Presque Isle.”
