New director of Raymond Village Library looking to enrich programming - By Lorraine Glowczak

This past Monday, October 10^th, The Raymond Village Library (RVL) hosted an open house to introduce the public to and welcome their new director, Allison Griffin. Formerly the director of the Bridgton Public Library, Griffin brings to her new post many years of experience that began at an early age.

“I volunteered at the Casco Public Library when I was a teenager and discovered how much I enjoyed the information and technology field,” Griffin explained. Upon learning how much she appreciated the job, combined with the fact that she loved both reading and technology, it became clear to Griffin that work in library science would be her vocation. 

Griffin began her career at the Jordan-Small Middle School as the Library Media Specialist and District Library Director. While working there, she completed her degree. Upon receiving her Masters in Library Science from the University of Wisconsin, Griffin decided to transition into the public library sector. She applied, was offered and accepted the technology resource librarian position and later the director’s position at the Bridgton Public Library, a position she held for the past year before returning to the Raymond community to make RVL her new home.

Griffin has a few plans in mind to add to the already amazing programs and services that are offered at RVL. “I am working on adding additional adult enrichment programs such as resume and career seminars, as well as poetry and writing workshops.” She also plans to add more tech support services and technology classes as well. 

The new director is also working closely with the youth services coordinator, Karen Perry, to increase opportunities to an already remarkable children and teen program. Presently offered are such programs as toddler and preschool story times, Lego Club and Make and Take Craft days. Discussion between Perry and Griffin include adding and providing a Maker Space and incorporating more STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) enrichment programs.

“Raymond Village Library offers many adult and youth enrichment series, which we will be more actively promoting within the community,” Griffin stated with reflection on recent conversations she’s had with library patrons she has encountered thus far. “Many people I have met are unaware of all the programs and services that are available on a weekly basis.” These programs include book clubs, author visits and a variety of enrichment workshops.

“We currently provide adult enrichment programming on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m,” Griffin said. 

This past Wednesday, October 12^th, RVL welcomed local specialist Ingrid LeVasseur to speak about thermal imaging (thermography) and its use in breast cancer screening. On Wednesday, October 19^th, RVL will host Maine author Brenda Buchanan. Buchanan is the author of the Joe Gale Mystery Series, set in the greater Portland area. She will discuss her third book in the series, Truth Beat. 

Griffin has enjoyed meeting community members and library patrons alike. “It’s been such a lovely transition,” she stated with pleasure. “The staff and board of trustees have been very welcoming and supportive.”

Feel free to stop by the Raymond Village Library to welcome the new director and share thoughts for the library’s future success. To read more about the various programs offered, the library itself or to sign up for a weekly newsletter, please visit the RVL website at www.raymondvillagelibrary.org/ or call 207-655-4283.