At the Raymond Village Library - By Sally Holt

The “third place” is a term coined by Ray Oldenburg in his 1990 book, “The Great Good Place.” A simple definition is, “neutral social surroundings separate from home and work/school.” Third places create a sense of community where people feel at home and make new friends and connect with old ones. Libraries are considered by many as a third place.
 

Fall is here and the colorful leaves and crisp autumn air make us want to snuggle up with a good book and Raymond Village Library is a great place to stop in check out a book, use a patron Internet access computer, or attend a children’s or adult program. 

The Affordable Care Act is bringing major changes to our health care system in the coming months. By the end of the year there will be new requirements for individuals, new options for affordable health coverage for many Mainers, and many new rights, protections and changes to current government healthcare programs. Join us on Monday, November 4 at 6:30 p.m. at the Raymond Village Library for a discussion, entitled, “The Affordable Health Act 101: Understanding the New Health Care Law”. Call 655-4283 or email sally.holt@raymondvillagelibrary.org to reserve your spot.

Maine author, Brenda Reeves Sturgis will entertain and delight us at the Annual Pajama Story Time, thanks to a grant from The Friends of Maine Libraries.

This exciting time will take place at the Raymond Village Library on Monday, November 18 beginning at 6 p.m. Ms. Sturgis is best known for her book, “10 Turkeys in the Road.” Wear your comfy PJ’s. Healthy snacks will be provided.

Since our gift baskets have become so popular, they will be going on sale on Monday, November 18 in time for Thanksgiving. There will be all sizes and types of baskets filled with goodies and gifts for holiday gifting, perfect for when you are looking for a present for a hostess, teacher or special friend. They will be available at the library during regular library hours through December until they are all gone.

A presentation exploring the role of money in politics in Maine’s elections will be held at the Raymond Village Library at 6:30 p.m. on November 20, with B.J. McCollister as speaker. Mr. McCollister has an extensive background in political campaigns and issue advocacy organizations. From his experience, he has come to the conclusion that government needs to be more accountable to the people. Presented by Maine Citizens for Clean Elections, a non-partisan organization, the presentation also suggests remedies to the problems of Money in politics, including upcoming state and federal legislation.

The book group will meet at the library on Monday, November 25 at 7 p.m. The group has chosen The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie, an unusual mystery starring 11-year-old Flavia De Luce, written by Alan Bradley. This tale takes place in England around the 1950s, and Flavia is joined by two nasty older sisters and a taciturn, widowed father. The story is fun, inventive, fast-paced and quick-witted, with tongue-in-cheek humor. All interested readers are invited to join us for what should be a lively discussion. The book will be available upon request at the library. For more information, call the library at 655-4283.

The Annual Tree Lighting will take place on the library lawn Sunday, December 1 at 5 p.m. This community event is sponsored by the Raymond Lions Club in conjunction with the Raymond Village Library and begins the holiday season each year in Raymond. All are invited to attend; carolers will entertain and refreshments are available. There will be a special story time beginning in the library at 4:30 p.m, conducted by Lisa Davison, youth services assistant.