Maine State Library Move Update

Good news: all staff and collections have successfully returned to the Cultural Building!

We are pleased to announce:

Starting Monday, June 1st, our collections will once again be available via interlibrary loan for library patrons across Maine, and that requesting and curbside services will resume for our on-site patrons.

Meanwhile, please note: In-person visits and reference services (including appointments) remain paused at present.

Staff are busy organizing workspaces, moving books, filling shelves, setting up new furniture, installing new equipment, and attending trainings. While we do not have a specific date yet for our full reopening due to vendor schedules outside of our control, we do anticipate it will be sometime this fall. We will continue to share updates as progress is made. Please check our website regularly for the latest information.

How to Contact Us

Staff remain available in a limited capacity. You may call our main line at 207-287-5600 any time. Your call will be returned within 24 hours Monday through Friday.

Talking Books and Outreach Services

Services for Talking Books, Large Print, and Homebound Books by Mail patrons continue without interruption.

  • Phone: 1-800-762-7106 or 207-287-5650
  • Online request form
  • Audio cartridges and large print books will continue to be mailed daily.
  • Patrons continue to have 24/7 access to the National Library Service collection through the BARD Mobile app and website:
    https://nlsbard.loc.gov/

Books by Mail

Library Development Services

Library Development services for Maine libraries will continue without interruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this mean I can now borrow books from the library?
Yes. Beginning Monday, June 1st our collections are once again available online (link to catalog) and requestable.

As an on-site MSL patron, how can I get my books?
Curbside appointments for pickup of library materials will be made by appointment. Once your item is available, you can call our main number (207-287-5600) or email circulation.msl@maine.gov at least one day before you wish to pick up your item(s). Curbside times will be Monday through Friday between 9am – 4pm.

Where will I pick up and return my books?
We are back at the Cultural Building, at 230 State Street, across from the State House. Our book drop is located right in front and is accessible any time for dropping off borrowed items. For pickup, we will explain the process to you when you make your appointment.

Why are some services still paused?
This is the final phase of moving the entire Maine State Library back to the Cultural Building. It requires a full, coordinated effort from staff to safely relocate collections, equipment, and services.

How will I know when services resume?
Updates will be posted on our website as soon as a reopening timeline is confirmed.

Can I still access online resources?
Yes. Digital Maine Library databases and Cloud Library eBooks remain available. If you need assistance, please use the online help form.

Are Talking Book services affected?
No. Talking Book services will continue. Audio cartridges and large print books will still be mailed, and BARD remains available 24/7.

What about Books by Mail?
Books by Mail service will continue. Please email Circulation.MSL@maine.gov or call 207-287-5622.

Are services to Maine libraries affected?
No. Library Development services will continue without interruption.

Stay Updated

We will continue to share updates as the move progresses and will announce when public services resume. Please check our website regularly for the latest information.