RANGELEY — Martin Gagnon, director of the Rangeley Public Library, has been appointed to the Executive Council of the Maine Library Association, where he will fill a vacant member-at-large position.

In a nomination letter, Gagnon said that he believed “libraries are the foundation of a strong and healthy community and does not want to see the vital work done by libraries throughout the state start to deteriorate due to the current economic woes.” He added, “libraries need advocates so that they may not only protect their own institutions but also their communities from losing crucial and free services.”

Gagnon, who graduated from La Salle University in 1997, spent several years writing for daily newspapers in both local and regional markets. Joining the Rangeley Public Library four years ago as a part-time staff member, Gagnon has worked steadily towards a second degree in library information and services from the University of Maine.

Nearly two years ago, Gagnon took over as director of the Rangeley Public Library.

“I am really excited about this new position on the Maine Library Association Council and its responsibilities. The more I am able to network with other library professionals, the better my knowledge and the greater my ability becomes to enhance the Rangeley Library,” said Gagnon.

“The roles that libraries are now playing in their communities have expanded tremendously. It is really important that what libraries are doing is brought to people’s awareness. Libraries truly do more than just check out books,” he said.

The mission of the Maine Library Association is to promote and enhance the value of the Maine libraries and librarianship, to foster cooperation among those who work in and for Maine libraries and to provide leadership in ensuring that information is accessible to all citizens and their libraries.