LEWISTON – The 121st Maine Legislature has issued a special legislative sentiment recognizing the Lewiston Public Library’s centennial anniversary.

The legislation was co-sponsored by Sens. Peggy Rotundo and Nieria Douglass and Reps. Margaret Craven, William Walcott, Elaine Makas, Richard Mailhot and Lillian LaFontaine O’Brien.

The full text of the legislative sentiment reads:

“Be it known to all that We, the Members of the Senate and House of Representatives, join in recognizing the Lewiston Public Library on the occasion of its Centennial Anniversary. The library was constructed on land provided by the City of Lewiston with $60,000 generously provided by Andrew Carnegie. The City committed to pay operational costs at a minimum of $5,000 annually.

“The library opened to the public on Feb. 7, 1903. Major renovations in 1973 added the new Children’s Room, the Community Room and staff work areas. Construction in 1997 more than doubled the size of the library with the addition of a connector to the adjacent Pilsbury Building.

“The library has also expanded beyond just books to include Internet resources and much more, but the mission to provide every citizen, regardless of age, income or social status, with access to the tools of learning to enable them to reach their personal educational goals and to expand their aspirations has remained constant.

“We send our congratulations to the staff and patrons of the Lewiston Public Library on this milestone; And be it ordered that this official expression of sentiment be sent forthwith on behalf of the 121st Legislature and the people of the State of Maine.”