Baxter Memorial Library in Gorham and Casco Public Library have been named recipients of the 2006 Maine Library Excellence Award.

State Librarian J. Gary Nichols recently presented the awards in the State House Hall of Flags. The event coincides with Maine Libraries Week, Jan. 7-13.

The Maine Library Excellence Award began in 2004 to recognize exemplary public library services and programs. It is sponsored by the Maine State Library, Maine Library Association, Maine Library Trustees Association, and Friends of Maine Libraries. Awards are presented in categories based on population served. Baxter won in the over-10,000 population category. Casco won in the below-10,000 category.

“The librarians from these exemplary libraries have demonstrated strong leadership and community awareness,” State Librarian J. Gary Nichols said. “Their approach and programs are models for libraries everywhere.”

Casco Public Library was recognized for its “Homeschool Alliance” program created in response to the needs of Casco homeschooling families who travel great distances to access homeschool resources. The materials and programs are open to the public and have enriched the library collection and community. The Casco Library/”Homeschool Alliance” sponsors diverse programs such as a chess club, an ongoing writing group, annual academic fairs, book groups, as well as classes in poetry, archeology, French, mineralogy, drama and art history.