Adults

Portland is a City of Readers! The Library is your partner to explore, research, and share the love of reading and learning. We love recommending what to read next, what’s popular and what’s lesser known, and what’s going on in the library and the community for our adult patrons.

GROUP TOURS & VISITS »

Elizabeth holds two books about cats for #PPL2x2Tuesday

What happens on PPL’s 2×2 Tuesday? Poetry meets poetry, art meets art, mysteries meet mysteries, gardens meet gardens, how to make amazing pizza meets how to make amazing pizza, and more! On 2×2 Tuesday, we’ll highlight two books from two authors on one scintillating subject for your reading enjoyment.

Learn More »
a group of people sit in a circle discussing a book

All are welcome to join the book group. Titles are chosen in advance by the members who rotate leading the discussion. Meetings are fun and mind-broadening. Contact the Peaks Island Branch Library for help in procuring these titles.

Learn More »
balls of yarn and knitting needles

Love to knit? Bring your current project and join other knitters for conversation and inspiration at the Peaks Island Branch! All are welcome, as are all skill levels.

Learn More »
The official seal of the State of Maine

PPL’s home for information about tax filing assistance, access to state and federal tax forms, and frequently asked questions about your taxes.

Learn More »
Man reads in the library

The seventh annual Reading Challenge is here! 24 books in 12 months: will you accept the challenge?

 

Learn More »
hand seen using calculator

The AARP Tax-Aide program will be at the Downtown Library to assist with filing your taxes for free every Wednesday from February 7 to April 3. This program is by appointment only. To make an appointment, please call (207) 518-8579.

Learn More »
A hand places a piece on a chess board

Looking to play chess? Want to brush up on your skills? Join us downstairs at the Downtown Library for drop-in chess. Bring a friend and bring your lunch.

Free and open to the public. All ages are welcome. Some skill is appreciated, but not necessary.

Learn More »
Three books by Ursula K. Le Guin appear next to a photo of the author

Join us on Back Cove Books’ comfy couches during winter’s dark months to discuss three books by Ursula K. Le Guin.

Learn More »
Flat files open to reveal an historic wood cut depicting the Old Port of Portland Maine

Please join us for a roundtable visit with some of the treasures from Portland Public Library’s Special Collections and Archives in the Portland Room. We’ll look at and talk about rare books, maps, prints, and manuscripts. You’ll also be introduced to the department itself, and how the story of the Greater Portland area is documented and preserved through these archival materials.

Learn More »
woman taking photo with books

Are you unsure of what to read next? Our Reader’s Advisory staff is here to help! We’re ready to put our professional book-matching skills to work for adults, teens, and children.

 

Learn More »
Up Next at the Library:
Mar19
Work Permit Clinic for Asylum Seekers10:15am - 5:00pm
Downtown Library
Mar19
Page to Stage: Clyde's5:00pm - 6:00pm
Rines Auditorium
Mar20
Free Tax Filing with AARP Tax-Aide10:00am - 1:30pm
Downtown Library
From the PPL blog:
Explore new titles in 2024!
Learn how to explore new titles that have just arrived or are on order at the library.   More »
Library Love: Our February Picks
Our staff shares a few great library picks for February.   More »
Celebrating Black History, Literature, and Culture
Resources and lists on Black History, Literature, and Culture   More »
Contact the Librarian
Sarah Skawinski   Email »
Adult Services Director
207-871-1700 x726
More Contacts »
Connect with the Library: