The Patten Free Library in Bath is located in the City park between Washington and Front Streets. It was named after George and John Patten, prominent Bath shipbuilders and shipowners who founded the institution in 1847. The library opened to the public in a professionally staffed building in 1891, thanks to a gift from Galen C. Moses, a local banker and investor who also built the nearby YMCA.
The physical plant of the library did not change much until 1960, when Mildred C. Wright donated $150,000 for the construction of a new wing to house a children's room, a youth room, a lobby and a lecture hall. The Davenport Fund donated money for a new level of stacks. The new wing was constructed in a style harmonious to the original building and promoted heavier use of the library after its opening in 1962. The lecture room became the frequent site of talks and exhibits on art and literature, and the youth room encouraged students to get together to study.
Another of the library's quiet public contributions was its fulfillment of the need for local historical study. The library's growing collection of maritime, regional and genealogical history materials would become the center for local historical research. One of the most popular rooms is the Reading Room, an elegant room with wood paneled walls, carpeting, wing chairs (often occupied by a resident cat), and a ticking case clock.
Today the library offers a busy schedule of cultural activities and programs, often cooperating with the ChocolateChurch and other local groups and performers. The CityPark is a wonderful place to go on a balmy, summer evening to enjoy the music of the Bath Municipal Band or other local talent. There are many programs that encourage participation with children, especially in the summer, in conjunction with the Bath Recreation Department. A schedule of activities and more information is available from the Patten Free Library at 33 Summer Street.
