Portland Public Library

Creating Connections and
Strengthening Community

Portland, Maine’s cultural center that connects everyone
to trusted resources, ideas, experiences, and information.
Summer Reading 2026 Header Image
June 22 – August 15
Summer Reading

Challenges and Events for all ages!

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2026-2031
Strategic Plan

Envisioning a more connected Portland.

Explore Our New Materials

Enjoy Our Newest Reads

New releases in Fiction, Nonfiction, Teens, and Children’s
We Are Gathered Here Today by Bobby Finger Book Cover
We Are Gathered Here Today
By: Bobby Finger
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Tillinghast by Clare Cavenagh Book Cover
Tillinghast
By: Clare Cavenagh
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Voyagers by Meg Charlton Book Cover
Voyagers
By: Meg Charlton
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The Unicorn Hunters by Arden Book Cover
The Unicorn Hunters
By: Katherine Arden
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Valley of the Moms by Hannah Selinger Book Cover
Valley of the Moms
By: Hannah Selinger
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The Tinder Box by M.R. Carey Book Cover
The Tinder Box
By: M.R. Carey
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Upcoming Programs and Events for All Ages

Stay engaged with learning
opportunities and community activities.
Adult Writing Group
Adult Writing Group
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Notebook Club
Notebook Club
Are you interested in keeping a creative journal, already have one in progress, or just like getting creative? Come join the Notebook Club at Burbank Branch!The Notebook Club is an ongoing group that meets twice a month to learn new journaling techniques. We will explore cartooning, watercolors and other art supplies, junk journal ideas, collage, and more!The focus topic this week will be: Soul CollagingThere is no commitment for attendance. Just bring your own journal, and we will provide the rest.
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Cours d'alphabétisation numérique
Cours d’alphabétisation numérique
Apprenez les compétences de base en informatique et sur internet. Les étudiants doivent parler anglais ou français.Inscription requis avec Hope Acts: Sign up for the programJoin Hope Acts for a free six-week digital literacy course, offered entirely in French, designed to help participants gain essential computer and internet skills. The class will cover a variety of basic technology topics to support everyday digital skills.Classes will meet on Saturdays from 10:00–11:00 AM at the Portland Public Library, beginning November 6.This program is free and open to French-speaking adults who want to build their digital skills.
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Ranked Choice Voting Mock Election
Ranked Choice Voting Mock Election
This event is an educational Rank Choice Voting mock election and question session free and open to the public. Maine uses the Rank Choice Voting Election Method for some races, including many in the June 9 primary election. This is a nonpartisan voter education event where you can have your questions answered and practice voting. All ages are welcome!Check out our Library Highlight post to learn more about Maine’s Primaries and Elections.
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Singing Storytime with Mx. Lindz
Singing Storytime with Mx. Lindz
Join local troubadour Mx. Lindz for Singin’ Storytime at the Portland Public Library! We’ll celebrate the magic of books through songs, stories, and just a little bit of fun. Perfect for kids…and kids-at-heart. Mx. Lindz (they/them) is an award winning writer, performer, and teaching artist. You can find them performing all over the Greater Portland area at Back Cove Books, the Children’s Museum and Theater of Maine, SPACE and more! Follow @mxlindz on Instagram or scan the QR code below to learn more about their upcoming events.
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All Ages Chess Club
All Ages Chess Club
Make Your Move!Looking for a fun, brain-boosting activity for all ages? Our All Ages Chess Club meets every other weekend and welcomes players of all experience levels.Learn new strategies, enjoy friendly competition, and be part of a growing chess community. Perfect for kids, teens, adults, and families!♟️ Learn♟️ Play♟️ Connect
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Our Digital Resources

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ComicPlus
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ConsumerReports

Visit Your Nearest Branch

Find hours, services, and contact information for each of our branches.
Square image of the Downtown Branch of the Portland Public Library at dusk.
Sunday:
Closed
Monday:
10am – 5pm
Tuesday:
10am – 6pm
Wednesday:
10am – 6pm
Thursday:
10am – 6pm
Friday:
10am – 5pm
Saturday:
10am – 5pm
Portland Maine from above

Insights, Tips, and Library Stories

Discover guides, articles, and news
from our community.
Ranked Choice Voting Maine's Primaries and Elections
Maine’s Primaries and Elections
Your Vote is Your Voice Voting is one of the most direct ways people can make their vo…
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Learn a New Language for Free with Mango
Learn a New Language for Free with Mango! 
Start Learning a New Language for Free Today Mango is a fun study tool that wil…
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Maine Flag, Friends of Aomori Logo, Aomori Flag Sister States: Maine and Aomori
Sister States: Maine and Aomori
Exhibit by Friends of Aomori April – June 2026 | Camden National Bank Community Gall…
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Stock Image of 3D printer
3D Printing
How Does 3D Printing Work? The Library’s Flashforge Adventurer (“Turing”) turns …
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Painting from Extracurricular Exhibit
Extracurricular
Lewis Gallery May – June 2026 Extracurricular features artwork from all fo…
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Knowing and Unknowing Block Print
Knowing and Unknowing
Organized by the Brazen Bandits, a local trans artist collective of conspiring creatives …
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Our Story

Portland Public Library

We’re proud of your history and on a mission to connect the Portland, Maine community.

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Mission

A welcoming cultural center that brings people together and connects them with…

Portland Public Library Original Baxter Building 1886
History

Since 1867, PPL has been a cornerstone of the region’s cultural landscape.

Bike To Work Week PPL
Strategic Plan

Strengthening community connections and establish a sustainable future.

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Vision

A vibrant, inclusive, and engaged community that thrives through connections discovered at PPL

You make everything possible

Join our mission to connect the community. Donate today. 

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