March 2026 Newsletter

"A library outranks any other one thing a community can do to benefit its people. It is a never-failing spring in the desert." -Andrew Carnegie

As we head into March, I want to address a topic that has recently appeared in the local news regarding whether the town should “give” money to nonprofit organizations that have received funding through the REVO Casino charitable gaming program. First and most importantly, Pope Memorial Library does not receive any town, state, or federal government funding, aside from annual support voted on by customers of the North Conway Water Precinct (NCWP). For many years, NCWP voters have generously approved $10,000 for the library. This year, we are petitioning for $12,500.

If you are an NCWP customer and believe in the work we do, we encourage you to attend the March 25th meeting and vote in support of the 2026 warrant article.

We are also deeply grateful to have been a beneficiary of charitable gaming funds through REVO Casino. Most recently, in January, we received a check for $22,000. Should NCWP voters approve the $12,500 request, that combined $34,500 will provide a tremendous start to our 2026 fundraising efforts. Please visit the homepage of our website to view our donation meter.

With remarkable foresight and generosity, Lyman Pope Jr. established an endowment when he funded the library’s expansion; that endowment is carefully earmarked for building-related expenses. While that support is invaluable, the library’s operational needs extend far beyond building maintenance.

This year, the Board of Directors and staff are responsible for raising approximately $158,000 to cover:

• Book and digital content purchases

• Salaries

• Program fees and events

• Bookkeeping and accounting services

• Computer and printer costs

• Professional subscriptions

• Legal fees

• And many other essential operating expenses

The library is busy! Our services, programs, and events continue to grow in response to community needs. From books purchased in our lobby to Sip & Paint nights, Dine to Donate events, and Bike4Books, every fundraiser helps ensure that the library remains sustainable, vibrant, and relevant for generations to come.

We are also incredibly thankful for the local businesses that sponsor us annually and for patrons like you who give generously of your time and resources.

Finally, we want to emphasize that the other nonprofits mentioned in the recent news — including Way Station and Starting Point — provide invaluable services to our community. Like the library, they continue to rely on local support despite receiving charitable gaming funds. We encourage you to continue supporting these vital organizations as well.

We are proud to serve this community and grateful for the trust and generosity that make our work possible. 

To find the most current dates, times, and registration information for all our programs, please visit our library website or stop by the front desk. Some events, particularly those with limited capacity, such as the Birding as a Tool Conservation program or author visits, may require advance sign-up.

As always, we hope to see you at the library soon and often.

Angela Callahan

Executive Director

Read our March newsletter to discover all that is happening this month.

As always, we hope to see you at the library soon and often.

READ THE NEWSLETTERS