ROCKLAND

The Rockland Public Library is hosting an Open House from 4 to 7 p.m. today. There will be something for everyone, and the public is urged to stay for the evening and have some fun.

There will be artist-led crafts for kids and storytime. Director of Midcoast Music Academy Tom Ulichny, will give a special demonstration of their djembe drumming skills.

Local jazz band Exact Change will provide live music throughout the evening, adding to the festive occasion. Roving juggler Steve Athearn will wow and amaze with his talent. The library will be showcasing some great library resources and giving guests a chance to weigh in on future program ideas. The Friends’ used bookstore, the BookStop, will be open, and there will be opportunity for casual conversation with staff and community members..

Bring your smartphone to participate in Appy Hour, with Jared Leadbetter from the Maine State Library, who will share some great apps to can expand how the devices can be used and look at the world of mobile computing.

Warm up by the fire in the welcoming Reading Room; then follow local history expert Brian Harden, who will lead a guided tour of the beautiful, historic building, which turns 111 this April.

Enjoy delectable food prepared by Library staff and support group members, including chili, soup, meatballs, and more. For dessert, sample a variety of scrumptious heart-shaped cookies, sparkling cupcakes, and the most decadently delicious hot chocolate you can imagine.

Thanks to the generosity of the Friends, guests of the Open House will have a chance at some amazing door prizes, including an iPad Air2, and gas and grocery gift cards. Participants must have a current and fine-free Rockland Public Library card to be entered for a prize. Cards are free for Rockland residents and taxpayers, as well as children in RSU 13. If you are a child residing anywhere in Knox County and not otherwise entitled to a free card, the Friends of the Rockland Public Library will pay for the card. Others may purchase a card for $35 a year.

“We welcome this chance to celebrate our regular Library visitors; however, we also hope to bring back many who haven’t been here in a long while,” said Library Director Amy Levine. “We are looking at this Open House as our Valentine to the Community-the theme for the event, and our enduring wish-love your Library; your Library loves you.”

Rockland Public Library is located at 80 Union St. in Rockland. For more information, contact the library at 594-0310 or refdesk@ci.rockland. me.us.