Camden Public Library

Camden Public Library is a public library and National Historic Landmark in Maine featuring classical architecture with stone walls, large windows, and columns at its entrance. The building houses not only books and media collections but also the Walsh History Center, which holds documents and photographs related to the town's past.

The Federal Society founded the first library in Camden in 1796 with 200 books when the town had only 15 houses. From this early collection grew an institution that has supported the intellectual and social development of the community for over two centuries.

The building's name honors a family deeply rooted in the town, and its rooms serve as gathering spaces where locals hold meetings and events. It functions as a community hub where people from Camden come together to share knowledge and experience their shared identity.

The library offers weekly programs throughout the year including book clubs, author presentations, exercise classes, and children's activities. Its classical architecture and downtown location make it easy to access and discover what the facility has to offer.

The grounds feature an amphitheater designed by Fletcher Steele, a landscape architect whose public projects are uncommon. This design represents one of his few works executed in public spaces and reflects his approach to outdoor planning.