On June 15, 2000, construction of the new Lincoln Library was complete. On June 24, people gathered at Burnham Hall. Children brought their little red wagons. The wagons were filled with all the children's books and paraded down River Road to the new Library. On July 7, the rest of the collection was moved. On July 17, just a little more than two years after the flood, the Lincoln Library reopened with 12,000 volumes in its collection. The celebration and public dedication ceremony took place on August 5 of that year.
Currently the Library has 16,000 volumes. Library Director Linda Norton and Assistant Director and Children's Librarian Debi Gray are the only remunerated staff except for a part-time custodian. Many of the day-to-day tasks involved in running the Library are done by steadfast volunteers from the community.
The Lincoln Library has become a community center for Lincoln and the surrounding area. Many people contribute their time and talents to create the 200 or so programs the Library offers each year for young and old. These programs include two storytimes each week for young children, magic and chess clubs for older children, and the "Summer Reading Program" for children. There are home-schooler programs, craft classes, health and informational programs, and nature and science programs for all ages. Literary discussions and programs for senior citizens are held monthly. The Library sponsors other programs, such as RSVP Bone Builders osteoporosis exercise program and the Pilates exercise program.
The cost to build a new Library and purchase the land was $680,000. Generous contributions from the residents of Lincoln and from many people who do not live in Lincoln enabled building the new Library. The building and land costs were covered entirely by donations.
The Lincoln taxpayers contribute one-third of the Library's annual operating budget. The size of the endowment fund needs to be increased substantially to help sustain the Library's growth and operation. Fundraising is essential. If you would like to make a contribution to the Lincoln Library, contact the Library directly or the Vermont Community Foundation.
