Main fundraiser photo

Bonney Memorial Library Expansion

"We're on the last chapter of our library renovation/ expansion story - please help us close the book and open the doors of our new library!"

In 1927, Dr. Sherman Bonney and his wife visited the town in which his parents had lived and where he was born. In existence for 60 years, the Cornish Library Association had run out of space above a village store. Dr. Bonney, as a tribute to his parents who had been members of the Association, offered to construct a new building “pleasing in external appearance and equipped with every modern convenience.” On June 27, 1929, the Bonney Memorial Library opened for an enthusiastic public.

Now, 90 years later, the Bonney Memorial Library (a 501(c)(3) organization), designed for 2000 books now contains over 15,000 items and our shelves are overflowing.  Our vision is to continue fulfilling Dr. Bonney’s goal to let the Library’s doors “be open to all who care to read and learn” and to complete a renovation and expansion which will allow the Library to become a focal point of community life, creativity, and learning – enriching lives and providing quality materials and services.

The library renovation/expansion design will:
·         Provide ADA compliant restrooms on each level;
·         ADA compliant elevator to access both levels;
·         Comfortable seating area;
·         Space for motivating programs provided for all ages;
·         Expanded children’s & young adult rooms;
·         Larger collection areas and room for growth;
·         Enhanced computer space;
·         Free access to computers with Internet & WiFi
·         Conference room;
·         Natural and improved lighting;
·         Energy-efficient building – heat pumps and solar energy;
·         Outdoor seating for WiFi;
·         Handicap drive-in area in front & outside green space

2012 - Building Committee purchased adjacent property with anonymously donated money and contracted with architect to design the renovation and addition of the library
2013 to present - Capital Campaign committee and Friends of Bonney Memorial Library worked on fundraising.  They’ve written and received grants, held fundraisers such as concerts, letter writing campaign, book and bake sales, garage sale, and travel programs.
2016 - Grants monies received paid for upgrading to LED lighting, cellular window shades and installing heat pumps. 
2017 to present– The renovation phase of the project began. Library services continue throughout the whole project. The ADA elevator and bathroom are in the final stages of completion. The construction of the new addition begins in June. We have raised nearly 80% of the funds needed to complete the project. The $10,800 GoFundMe Goal will bring us closer. Please help us reach our goal through your generous donation. We appreciate any amount you can contribute! Your donation may be tax deductible.
Thank you!
Board of Trustees and Friends of Bonney Memorial Library

Board of Trustees: Allaire Palmer, President; Linda Humphrey, Vice President; Colleen Tims, Secretary; John Bash, Treasurer; Thomas Carper Scott Cecil; Lorie Pike; Mary Pingree; Robert Tims

Building Committee: John Bash, Chairman; Thomas Carper; Kenneth Hall; Sandra Howe; Allaire Palmer; Cheryl B. Hevey

Checks should be made payable to and mailed to:
Bonney Memorial Library
P.O. Box 857, Cornish, ME 04020

If you have questions,  visit www.bonney.lib.me.us

Library located at 36 Main Street, Cornish, ME 04020



Present Library


Future Library - Architectural Design of Library Addition

Organizer

Cheryl B Hevey
Organizer
Cornish, ME
Cornish Library Association
 
Registered nonprofit
Donations are typically 100% tax deductible in the US.

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