About Us

The Maitland Public Library connects the community to a world of opportunity.

To accomplish this mission, the library provides reading material, online resources, classes, and events, ensuring free and equal access to information for all citizens of Maitland.

With the donation of 360 books by Maitland resident Clara Dommerich, the Maitland Public Library was created in 1896. First housed in a local teacher’s living room, the library later moved to a storefront on Horatio Avenue, near the railroad tracks. The current library building on South Maitland Avenue was built in 1907, with additions made to it in 1959, 1972, and 1989. Today the collection exceeds 96,000 items, including nearly 29,000 downloadable books and audiobooks.

Although the Maitland Public Library was originally established, owned, and operated by Maitland residents, and governed by a Board of Trustees comprised of Maitland citizens, it became apparent by 1972 that expansion was needed to accommodate the increasing needs of Maitland’s citizens.  An agreement was forged with the City of Maitland to expand the library and its services to Maitland residents. Because the city could not use public funds to build on private property, the Board of Trustees agreed to turn over all physical assets of the library – the grounds, building, and collection – to the city.  Under this arrangement, the city agreed to fund the operating budget of the library and to maintain the building and grounds.  The library maintained its independent governance and nonprofit corporate status to allow the receipt of direct donations.  This agreement permits the library to continue to exist as a nonprofit corporation operated by residents of the City of Maitland.

The Maitland Public Library is governed by volunteers serving on the Board of Trustees, to whom the Library Director reports.  These citizens meet monthly to review existing services, discuss future plans, and make decisions as needed regarding library policy.  While the Library Director is responsible for the general operation of the library and ensures that the library is operated in accordance with the guidelines of the American Library Association, the Board establishes the guidelines and procedures pertaining to library services and personnel.

(Historical information thanks to “The Maitland Public Library – A Century of Service” by Nancy Long. Maitland Public Library. Maitland, FL. 1996.)