A novel achievement: Wareham Free Library celebrates 35 years
Library Director Patrick Marshall gives a closing statement that's one for the books. Photos by Brandy Muz
Guests enjoyed a variety of refreshments during the event.
Nancy Rice, who has worked for months to bring the event together.
The crowd listens to speakers.
Senator Kelley Dooner shows to not judge a book by its cover when thinking about what libraries do.
Dooner hands Marshall the citation.
Rice worked since the beginning of the year to collect memories for the anniversary. 
Though the library does offer more than just books, it does still have the classics.
A newspaper clipping from the grand opening 35 years ago.
Library patrons shared their love for the building.
Memories on display.
Library Director Patrick Marshall gives a closing statement that's one for the books. Photos by Brandy Muz
Guests enjoyed a variety of refreshments during the event.
Nancy Rice, who has worked for months to bring the event together.
The crowd listens to speakers.
Senator Kelley Dooner shows to not judge a book by its cover when thinking about what libraries do.
Dooner hands Marshall the citation.
Rice worked since the beginning of the year to collect memories for the anniversary.
Though the library does offer more than just books, it does still have the classics.
A newspaper clipping from the grand opening 35 years ago.
Library patrons shared their love for the building.
Memories on display.
On May 6, 1991, George H.W. Bush was president, minimum wage was $4.25 and the average amount of gas per gallon in Massachusetts was 94 cents.
It's also the day that the doors to the Wareham Free Library at 59 Marion Road opened for the first time.
The library celebrated 35 years Wednesday, May 6 with cake, readers and three decades of history coming together. With various speakers showing up to spread good words about the building, the event was packed full of library-loving guests.
Battling floods, pandemics and many other challenges over the years, the library has provided Wareham residents with education, hobbies and resources since the building opened in 1991. Before that the library held space in Wareham Center, Redmen Hall and High Street.
Organizer of the event and Chair of the library's Board of Trustees, Nancy Rice said some of those attending were at the grand opening 35 years ago. When she wasn't busy greeting old friends and making sure the event went without a hitch, she was admiring months of preparation.
"I hope people get past the notion that the library is just about lending books with an event like this," Rice said. "That's just the starting point. The library is a gathering place — a meeting place. You can do research, learn computers, take courses and you meet so many people here."
As the Covid-19 pandemic canceled any 30 year plans, the board worked together to make sure the 35th year was special. The event also hosted author Julie Hennrikus who had once paid the library a visit to speak about her novels with the mystery book club.
Rice shared how happy she was to see so many show up to celebrate.
"We appreciate the enthusiasm and support for the library," she said. "This is a really happy occasion."
Senator Kelley Dooner presented Library Director Patrick Marshall with a citation to congratulate the anniversary. She said Marshall was one of the first who reach out to her when she got elected and emphasized the importance of local spaces like the Wareham Free Library.
"When you think of a library you think of books— that was my perception growing up." Dooner said.
Dooner said Marshall helped her change that idea.
Marshall echoed the same sentiments. Though he said the "new" smell of the building has faded over the years, the true meaning of the library hasn't waned in the last three decades with the rise of technology — its adapted.
Reading through Bustle Magazine author Sadie Trombetta's article, "Why Libraries Are Essential, Now More Than Ever" Marshall detailed seven reasons as to why the Marion Road spot is integral into the way Wareham runs.
"In every public library description you can find something that has been accomplished here at the library in Wareham over not only the past 35 years, but just in the past week," he said.
The library continued to serve its many purposes on Wednesday as it united community members with the anniversary celebration. Guests mingled and viewed photos and celebrated the past, present and future.
"We look forward to seeing you for the next 35 years," Marshall said.
