Lyme Library Attendance Rises 26%, Sponsors Sought For Events Mailing

Lyme Public Library attendance rose 26% through August compared with the prior year, according to board minutes posted by the Town of Lyme. Library director Melissa Fournier also reported a 46% increase in the number of programs and higher program attendance than in 2025.

Fournier and board Chair Laura Mooney are seeking advertising sponsors to cover a direct mailing about fall and spring events, particularly Opening Doors. The mailing is intended to reach everyone in town, and the minutes note that the Town Board supports the effort.

Opening Doors aims to reduce loneliness and insecurity through information, outreach phone calls and friendship connections, according to the minutes. Memory kits and other packages supporting people who are isolated are available at the library's front desk. Laurette Klier has provided training on communicating with people who have memory loss.

Volunteers willing to bake for Sweet Spot are encouraged to do so. The Opening Doors community outreach group will meet at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 18.

Library Friends representative Holly Rubino reported that the group's book sale netted $4,200. The Friends supported approximately $5,000 for adult programs, $1,200 for Oscar events and $1,400 for refreshments during the year. The library board's October meeting was moved to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10.