Mission:

The Mission of The Dr. Shaw Memorial Library is to build community by bringing people, information and ideas together  and to encourage education through use of our collections and services.

History:

The library was originally a private residence built in 1841 by Calvin Hopkins. In 1883, Dr. Herbert and Ella Doten Shaw purchased the house which they used as their residence and the doctor’s office. Dr. Shaw practiced in Mount Vernon for many years during which he grew to love the town and was respected by the town’s people.

Mrs. Shaw died in 1926, followed by Dr. Shaw in 1939. His will gave his house and savings to the town to be used as a library. In 1943, the Dr. Shaw Memorial Library was opened to the public and in 1979 it became the town library.

Dr. Shaw left a trust fund for the library’s support and over the years other generous donations have allowed for a healthy book budget, beautiful landscaping, carpeting, improvements to the driveway, and other major projects.

Margaret Webber, the librarian for many years, is also part of the library’s history. The room which houses our public access computers is named the Margaret Webber room in her honor. The Maine books room is dedicated to former well known resident and local historian, Clayton Dolloff.

A beautiful landscaped garden in memory of former trustee Sue Inch, made possible through a generous donor, adorns the property.

A dedicated board of trustees, an excellent staff and many hours contributed by faithful volunteers make this all possible. The board of trustees includes Chairman George Smith, Dorcas Riley, Kathy Kelly, Shari Hamilton, and Fred Webber. Staff members are Head Librarian Alice Olson, Anne Brooks, and Mary Anne Libby.