TOPSHAM — Topsham Public Library’s board said Wednesday it is “overwhelmed” by a $770,000 donation from the estate of former Topsham resident Janice Solomon. 

“Ms. Solomon was a frequent library patron and enjoyed speaking with the staff when she visited,” states a news release from the library. “She mentioned to a friend that she ‘felt safe and welcomed’ at the library.”

Solomon will be honored posthumously with this year’s Sarah Whitten Community Award for her support of the library and the community. The award honors the spirit of Sarah Whitten, who donated her family home to the Topsham Public Library in 1941 and is given annually by the Library Board of Trustees.

“This is a humbling gift for all of us,” said Library Director Susan M. Preece in the release. “Our mission is to be a community center in Topsham and we receive so much encouragement from the Town and residents.  We are proud to be able to share Ms. Solomon’s legacy with Topsham.”

“Janice Solomon’s gift is reminiscent of the forward thinking of other generations of library supporters helping to ensure that the library remains an integral part of the community,” Board President Larry Fitch said in the release.

The library was one of three charities to receive a bequest from Solomon.

The donation has been placed with the Maine Community Foundation for investment as the Trustees work on a strategic long-range plan for 2020-2023. “In keeping with Ms. Solomon’s wishes, determining the best and most appropriate use of this gift will be a part of the planning process,” the release states.