RANGELEY -- Every year at this time, the Rangeley Public Library kicks off its Annual Fund Drive. However, this year is special for it marks the Rangeley Public Library's Centennial Anniversary.

In January 100 years ago, the Rangeley Public Library established a permanent home and opened its doors in the beautiful arts and crafts building at 7 Lake Street.

The Rangeley Public Library is in actuality a private, non-profit organization. Town and plantation municipal contributions, for which the library is grateful, fund about half of what it takes to keep the library up and running.

The rest must come from fundraisers such as the book and bake sale, the pies and prose sale, the Gala, phone book sales and the spaghetti supper.

In addition to fundraisers, the library also relies on grants and tax deductible donations to the Annual Fund.

Proceeds from all of these sources don't just cover the "extras," according to a library spokesperson, rather, they are essential components of the library's budget. They pay for heating fuel, staff salaries, book purchases, programs and the maintenance and operation of the building.

As the centennial year begins, the library staff, volunteers and board invite the public to celebrate with them. Plans are in the works for a number of very special events to commemorate this momentous occasion in the Rangeley Public Library's history. All involved urge the public to contribute generously to this year's Annual Fund so that they can make the Rangeley Public Library's 100th anniversary a year to remember.

Contributions are tax-deductible and insure the library's future. It wouldn't and couldn't operate without support.