Founded:
The first semblance of a library in Southwest Harbor dates back to 1884 when Mrs. Annie Sawyer Downs began gathering books from local summer hotels. She used a corner of R. J. Lemont's store as the depository. As more books began to accumulate, it became clear that more space was needed.Money was raised and eventually a public library was designed by Eleazer Bartlett Homer. The new library was dedicated on October 31, 1895.
Collections:
The Southwest Harbor Public Library currently maintains a collection of 5,000+ photographs dating from 1890-1958. These contain works from photographers such as Henry Lathrop Rand, George E. Neal, and Willis H. Ballard as well as Charles Townsend, Bryant Bradley and others. The Henry R. Hinckley Company collection of photographs is also kept at the Library.
The collection of photographs is housed in the Weaver Photography Archive Room, the money for which was donated by Miles W. Weaver in 2000.
Facilities:
The current Southwest Harbor Public Library building is the result of many renovations and additions over the years. The original building, which still stands as part of the structure, dates to 1895. The first addition was added in 1939, and subsequent additions have bolstered the Library's size and facilities in 1955, 1963 and 1984. The final expansion of 2000 brought the Library to its current-day form and allowed for such facilities as the Weaver Photography Archive Room, computer stations that are open to the public and wireless internet access. There are also many spaces in the library that are open to the public and are often used by various groups and organizations for functions.
Hours:
Monday - Tuesday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Wednesday: 9a.m. - 8 p.m.
Thursday - Friday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Friday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. - noon
closed Sunday