Library match appeal

A matching appeal is underway for the library’s 135th anniversary. File photo / Patti Mikkelsen

In recognition of the New Gloucester Public Library’s 135th birthday, the Friends of NGPL is introducing a match appeal to support the mission of the library. The Friends’ goal is to offer a 1:1 match, up to a total of $2,000.

The funds would help the library in its quest to purchase books to bring it up to the standard suggested for its size. Although the library receives generous support from the town of New Gloucester, it still runs short of certain recommended standards that a library needs to provide full service to their community.

To contribute to this appeal, donations can be made through PayPal or Venmo at bit.ly/3KvVYxq. Those who prefer to send a check may mail it to Friends of the New Gloucester Public Library, PO Box 321, New Gloucester, ME 04260 and note “match appeal” on the memo line.

The deadline for donating is March 15.

Family game afternoon

To wrap up Winter Carnival at the end of school vacation week, the New Gloucester Public Library is offering Family Game Afternoon from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Feb 26. Families can play board games or assemble puzzles. RSVP to secure a spot by calling 926-4840 or emailing newgloucesterlibrary@gmail.com.

History Barn open house

“Celebrations” is the featured exhibit of the March 4 open house at the New Gloucester History Barn. The free event will be held from 9 a.m. to noon. The barn is located behind the Town Hall on Route 231.

Patti Mikkelsen can be contacted at mikks@maine.rr.com.

Community Cafe

Join other seniors for lunch and friendly conversation at a monthly Community Cafe held at the First Congregational Church Vestry, 19 Gloucester Hill Road. The program is sponsored by Gray-New Gloucester Recreation, which partners with a local caterer to provide a meal on the second Wednesday of each month. This month’s cafe on March 8 features shepherd’s pie.

The suggested donation for eligible adults is $8. Eligibility requirements include Maine residents age 60 and older, their spouses of any age, adults under 60 and the disabled who reside with or accompany older adults to Community Cafe. Anyone who does not meet the criteria is welcome to join in for $10.

RSVP by calling 926-4126 ext. 231 (leaving a voicemail is OK) or by emailing recdirector@newgloucester.com by Friday, March 3. Dietary accommodations are possible, so indicate specifics when you respond.

Full moon snowshoe hike

Take part in celebrating the March full moon, known as the Worm Moon, from 5-8 p.m. March 7 by taking a snowshoe trek from the Pineland Farms Outdoor and Fitness Center (former YMCA), 25 Campus Drive, to the Oak Hill Cabin. There, the group will enjoy a lit fire pit and great views of the full moon and the surrounding stars.

During this weather-dependent outing, participants will be taught how to use and hike in snowshoes, how to read and follow Pineland’s trail maps, and how to prepare for snowshoeing adventures by wearing proper attire and employing responsible leave-no-trace practices.

This event is open to all ages; however, hikers must be able to traverse various terrains in snow for three miles within the time frame. Needed gear includes winter boots, snow jackets and pants (layers preferred), hat and gloves. Sporting a headlamp is optional.

The fee is $30 per person, snowshoe rental included or hikers can bring their own. Sign up at shop.pinelandfarms.org. Contact the Outdoor Center at 688-6599 or outdoor@pinelandfarms.org with any questions.

Patti Mikkelsen / For Lakes Region Weekly

Roll out the baked goods

Fans of home-style baked goods are eagerly awaiting the opening of Maples, 1055 Lewiston Road, slated to open in April. The bakery has a popular sister store in Yarmouth.