Welcome to Our New Digital Collections Site
Thank you for your patience as we continue to migrate items and develop our site. If you have questions, please email: localhistory@bangorpubliclibrary.org
Learn MoreWelcome
Bangor History features digitized materials from the collections of the Bangor Public Library and our community partners in Bangor, Maine. We make these materials freely available to enhance discovery of special collections, support learning about local history, and provide a digital platform for community-based history projects.
This site provides a small sample of the historical materials available to view in our Local History Room. Learn more about the library's Genealogy and Local History collections.
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Tip: Use quotation marks around an exact phrase like a name or a title.
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World War I Posters
Posters used to recruit service members, encourage thrift at home, and help fund the war. Bangor Public Library acquired its collection of war posters through the efforts of L. Felix Ranlett, a World War I veteran and librarian from 1937 to 1962.
Bangor Public Library, 1970: A Photographic Tour
Photographs from an album created by librarian Marjorie Anne Moore. "I have tried to give the viewers of these photos a bird's-eye-view of some of the highlights of the activities carried out in their library."
World War II Navy Cruise Books
Photograph-rich publications documenting the deployment of a particular ship during World War II, including the ship's history, travels, battles, and personnel.
Dow Air Force Base
Publications about Dow Air Force Base, formerly Dow Field and Bangor Army Air Field. Includes written histories as well as guidebooks for new airmen.
City Directories
City directories list the address and occupation of residents and provide information about local businesses, schools, churches, social organizations, and more. Access additional directories in the Local History Room.
Urban Renewal in Bangor, Maine
In June 1958, Bangor voters approved the creation of the Bangor Urban Renewal Authority by referendum. These materials document Urban Renewal projects that reshaped Bangor in the 1950s and 1960s.