KENNEBUNK, Maine — Public libraries fill a lot of needs.
The Kennebunk Free Library is no different, offering virtual reading programs during the COVID-19 pandemic, live music sessions among its bookshelves, and even ghost-hunting kits ready to be checked out.
But the locals are buzzing about a new program launched just last year.
Starting in June 2023, the library has fostered cats from the Animal Welfare Society across town. In a cozy, dark-wood-paneled room lined with bookcases, Assistant Library Director Allison Atkins and her staff set up a multi-story cage. However, for most of the day, the feline residents have the run of the larger room and visit with the humans who come sit at its tables.
Helen Rousseau was one such visitor. A 15-year member of the library, she recalled walking in one September day last year.
"I walked up the stairs and I saw this picture," Rousseau held up a flyer with a color photo of a cat and a description. "It said, 'Hi, I'm Fig,' and that was it."
The Kennebunk resident was smitten. She adopted Fig, who has become a valued companion.
"She's just a delight, you know," Rousseau explained. "It's just a presence. As opposed to living alone, having an animal is a presence in the home and it's energy, and that's always good."
As of this writing, the library has fostered well over 30 cats, most being adopted within one or two weeks, according to Atkins, and none being returned to the shelter.
"There are lots of stereotypes about librarians that are not true, but the librarian and cat stereotype is absolutely true," Atkins laughed.
She reached down and petted the library's newest resident, Abracadabra, or "Abra" who would be adopted the following day.
"Books and cats are just a cozy combo," she said.
Dana Falsetta is the animal services director at the Animal Welfare Society. She helped start the program and said the record for the fastest adoption is two hours after arrival.
"The program has been incredible for us," Falsetta said. "Cats have this really social, beautiful space to be in; really get to show off their personality more than they can in the shelter; they get an opportunity to meet new people and be in a less stressful environment."
The library regularly receives cats as soon as one is adopted and the welfare society can provide another.