ROCKPORT — Rockport held a 100th anniversary celebration for its public library Friday afternoon, complete with an open house, student musicians, a bounce house, balloons and a proclamation from the Maine 126th Legislature.

At the stroke of 4 p.m. celebrants gathered in a small reading room in the small library and Town Manager Rick Bates announced that Ann Filley had been named the new library director.

"It is not about the books, it is not about the building, it is about the people here supporting the library," Bates said. "I thought it would be really fitting that we start off the next 100 years by announcing who the new library director will be, and I am pleased to say that Ann Filley will be the new director."

Filley has been serving as interim director since late in the fall of 2013, after the former director, Molly Larson, announced her departure to pursue other interests. Prior to that, Filley had been serving as the library's deputy director.

"I am so honored to be part of this organization and the people involved with it." said Filley, as the applause died down. "I enjoy every day that I come to the library. I really don't want to get teary-eyed, so I’ll just say, thank you all so much."

State Rep. Joan Welsh (D-Rockport) delivered and read the proclamation that recognized the Rockport Public Library for its 100 years of service to the community.

"The library began as a roomful of books in the basement of the Rockport Opera House in 1914 and has had only six directors in its 100-year history. It has grown and expanded under the leadership of those directors who, with dedicated staff, have nurtured and expanded its collection and programs. The library now houses more than 32,000 books and circulates more than 67,000 titles each year. It hosts many programs for adults and children and has an active Friends of the Library group. We extend our congratulations to the Rockport Public Library as it continues to be a treasured resource for Rockport residents and visitors; And be it ordered that this official expression of sentiment be sent forthwith on behalf of the 126th Legislature and the people of the State of Maine," said the proclamation.

"I am so lucky to live and be in this community," said Welsh.

Bates also recognized 25-year part-time library assistants Priscilla Wood and Jenny Ruddy, and announced the retirement of full-time staffer Jane Babbit, technical services/circulation.

"We are definitely here to stay for another 100 years," said Wood.

The Rockport Public Library's 100-year celebration also was a day filled with fun and music, including performances by the Camden-Rockport Middle School Jazz Band, the OffBeats and the Camden Hills Regional High School Jazz Combo.

Editorial Director Holly S. Edwards can be reached at hollyedwards@penbaypilot.com or 706-6655.