ROCKPORT, Maine — The Rockport Select Board is seeking individuals to serve on a Library Building Committee to complete the planning stage for development of a new library.
In a news release, the town said the board is looking for people who are “good problem-solvers, can work in a team and are dedicated to getting the job done within a very tight timeframe.”
The town plans to move into temporary lease space on Route 1 at 485 Commercial St. after Thanksgiving. The lease is for two years with an option for additional years if the town needs more time.
The move is being made because of the poor condition and poor air quality of the current library located in Rockport Village.
Those who want to serve on the planning committee should send a written statement about why they are interested in serving, the skills they can bring to the committee and specific past experience that might be relevant, according to the town. Statements can be emailed to the town manager at rbates@town.rockport.me.us with Library Building Committee in the subject line, or mailed directly to Rick Bates, Town Manager, 101 Main Street, Rockport, Maine 04856.
The deadline for submissions is close of business Friday, Dec. 4. Interviews will be conducted on Tuesday, Dec. 8, beginning at 6 p.m. Applicants should indicate a preference for when they would like to be interviewed. Interviews will be limited to 10 minutes per applicant. Questions the Select Board would like specifically addressed by the applicant will be provided in advance.
The Library Building Committee will use the program outline proposed by the committee and approved by the select board on Nov. 5 to write a recommendation to the board, including a design and cost estimate. Processional assistance will be provided.
Planning for the new facility will focus on programming, cost and long-term use. Other considerations include staffing, building efficiency, archives/storage space, accessibility and site planning/site safety.
The new library will be built on land donated by Mary Curtis Bok on the combined site of Memorial Park (The Village Green) and 1 Limerock Street.
“The Rockport Public Library holds a special place in the fabric of our community and the work of this committee is very important in creating a new home for the library,” the town stated in the news release.