“There is no friend as loyal as a book.”

Ernest Hemingway

Love books? Adopt a Book in the Vinalhaven Public Library!

This year, the Friends is introducing an exciting new program that allows library patrons to share their favorite books with friends, fellow islanders, and future generations of readers. The Adopt-a-Book program officially begins on July 4!

For $25, donors can see their names—or the names of loved ones—inside the covers of the books that mean the most to them.

Librarians Jen and Linda have spent the winter making a wishlist of books that they’d like to see on the VPL shelves—books that are old and worn, well-loved and need of replacement, or even missing altogether! Donors can browse this list and sponsor the addition of these titles to the collection for a flat rate of $25 per book. Once it’s arrived, the book will feature a beautiful bookplate designed by local artist Heather White and featuring the name of the donor. Donors can choose to honor a family member through a unique gift, set up a beautiful tribute to someone they’ve lost, or even shoutout themselves!

Ready to adopt?

Browse the spreadsheet to see which books are available for adoption. Have a specific book in mind that isn’t on the list? Please email us at friendsofvhlibrary@gmail.com.

How does it work?

Step One: Browse the list of books that are up for “adoption” at VPL. This list has been curated by our librarians and includes older titles that are well-loved, books that are on Jen and Linda’s wish list, or books that went missing and need replacement! This list will be updated continuously as books are adopted, so PLEASE check to make sure your desired title is there before purchasing!

Step Two: Beginning July 4, for $25 each, you can sponsor a book from the list and add it to the shelves of VPL! Find us in the parking lot on July 4 or at pop-up events throughout the summer (check social media and the Wind for details). You can also email your request to friendsofvhlibrary@gmail.com and pay online using our PayPal function.

Step Three: Let us know what you want your bookplate to say. You can “adopt” a book in your own name, give it as a unique and special gift, or set up a tribute to someone you love. All of our bookplates were designed by Vinalhaven artist Heather White and will be placed on the inside covers of all adopted books.

Step Four: Come visit your book on the shelves of VPL! Library patrons will be so grateful to have new and classic books in the collection.