RUMFORD — Friends of the Rumford Library will host a celebration honoring the publication of “Hope Association: A History,” at 2 p.m Saturday, Jan. 16, in the public room of the library. The book recalls the founding and growth of the current Hope Association.

The publication includes journal entries from parent and leader Burton DuPaul. Dedicated in memory of Vito Umbro Jr., the book also gives individual tributes to Margaret Beliveau, Pauline Gallant, Elsie Morency, Laurette Gammon, Dorothee Turnbull and others whose vision and perseverance created a kinder world for people with disabilities.

Author and project director Ronda Shaw will give a presentation on the book that was three years in the making. Shaw’s remarks will recall the grassroots effort that began in 1956 at a time when reasonable options were not available to children with disabilities.

Parents and other supporters went door-to-door canvassing, they built a school with independent funds, they lobbied Augusta and they established a new mindset that created reverberations felt throughout Maine.

Refreshments and socializing will follow the presentation. In attendance will be family members of Margaret Beliveau and Vito Umbro Jr., State Representatives Matt Peterson and Sheryl Briggs and other friends of Hope Association.

Proceeds from the sale of the book, which costs $18, will benefit Hope Association programs. Copies will be available at the event and also may be purchased at Red Hill Natural Foods, Bartash, Dead River, the Rumford branch of the Franklin Savings Bank and the What-Not Shop at Hope Association.