This is my favorite library EVER, and I’ve patronized libraries in multiple cities in the five states in which I have lived. We were stationed in Kittery for a short and wondrous time, and I practically lived in this library. Friendly staff, great selection, and the building is historical and absolutely beautiful. Rice Public Library is perfection.
Brian S.
Place rating: 5 Warwick, RI
Books birds and Arabella The Rice Library in Kittery is a stunning building that was constructed in 1888 from money left in her will by Arabella Rice. It was designed by the famous Boston architect Sheperd Woodcock and is a classic Victorian with a bit of Romanesque thrown in for good measure, Made from brick dragged up from Philadelphia, the inside features a lovely vaulted ceiling, great stained glass windows and lovely wooden staircases. Elegance but tasteful aesthetics everywhere you look. The original library once held a huge collection of stuff birds on the second floor but that is now the children’s area. The birds are gone, replaced by a whole lot of fun stuff for kids. In 1991 another generous patron gave a large sum of money to the library and major renovations took place. Fortunately none of the original flavor and beauty of the library was compromised. A wonderful library not only for the people of Kittery but also for anyone visiting the town and wants to do some research of get some information in a stunningly lovely Victorian building.