In support of this year’s
Community Spotlight organization:
For our second summer of “Building a Better World,” Thomas Memorial Library is delighted to shine a spotlight on a local organization making a difference in our community: The Locker Project is a nonprofit focused on the greater Portland area, committed to sharing fresh, nutritious food with kids and families. Through partnerships with schools, libraries, farms, and with the help of more than 200 active volunteers, The Locker Project tackles food insecurity with a generous heart and a splash of fun – truly helping to build a better world.
To uplift the incredible work of The Locker Project,
TML invites readers of all ages to participate in our summer reading program!
From June 15 – August 15, the library is offering anyone (local or otherwise) the opportunity to complete our challenges and compete for a range of fun prizes. We’re hosting an array of programs and events relating to the mission of The Locker Project, which will also be featured in a special Stier Family Gallery exhibit for the entire month of July.
Summer Reading Kick-Off Event!
Community Picnic and Food Drive with The Locker Project
Saturday, June 20
11:00 am – 12:30 pm
on the library’s front lawn
Come kick off Summer Reading at the library with a picnic!
Bring your own blanket and lunch. We’ll provide the fun!
Music provided by classical guitar player, Bruno Panunzio. We are also encouraging everyone to bring a food item to donate to The Locker Project, this year’s Summer Reading community spotlight.
(If it is raining, we will move the event inside.)
Donations Needed
Click the links below to view lists of needed items, or stop by the library to pick up print-outs!
- C.A.R.E. (Culturally Appropriate Resources & Essentials)
- Pantry Staples
- Snacks
- Shelf-Stable Protein
Other Programs and Events
More About Our Summer Reading Challenges
Preview Our Challenge Cards for Different Age Groups
Early Literacy Program
Kids Program
Tween Program
Teen Program
Adult Program
Thank you!
Our Summer Reading Program is made possible by generous donations made by community members to the Thomas Memorial Library Foundation, which provides funding to the library for programs, events, and resources that are not part of the library’s regular operating budget.
Thank you to everyone who has donated to TMLF!
To learn more about how you can support the library, visit the TMLF website by clicking the logo below!
More Terrific Nonprofits to Support
The Locker Project was one of fifteen nonprofit organizations that applied for TML’s new Community Spotlight initiative. The TML Committee, an advisory board appointed by the Town Council, reviewed the applications and selected this year’s organization during their March, 2026 meeting. Each year going forward, a different nonprofit organization will be selected through this process to be highlighted in TML’s annual summer reading programs.
We encourage you to learn about and support
the other organizations that applied this year:
