In 1815, the Maine Charitable Mechanic Association was the fellowship for Portland’s creative community: the blacksmiths, coopers, carpenters, and more. Between 1857 and 1859, they built Mechanics’ Hall to house their library and become a communal gathering space. Today’s Mechanics’ Hall connects to that rich history by inspiring and enriching the community while promoting ingenuity, creativity, innovation and the diffusion of useful knowledge.
We are the modern mechanics. Join us.
Spin-off series this fall!
Makers (in Their Studios) is the virtual spin-off series to our popular Makers at the Hall program. Talks, panel discussions and lectures normally take place at Mechanics’ Hall in Portland, Maine. We have transitioned into a virtual format during these times of health concern, but we like to think of it as a shift of perspective because now we are joining the makers right in their studios for a closer look at their processes and stories. Fall speakers include Terrill Waldman of Tandem Glass, Ayumi Horie, and Scott Nash.
Library pick-up service!
Exciting news for all of you book lovers: we’ve opened the library for “curbside” service! Now you can pick up new titles and return old ones Tuesday through Thursday. Please click button below for more details.
Now hiring: Part-time Librarian
The Maine Charitable Mechanic Association (MCMA)/Mechanics’ Hall is seeking a creative, collaborative, and experienced leader to step into the role of librarian as our long term librarian prepares to retire. Although this position has not yet been filled, we have received enough applications and we are not reviewing anymore at this time. Thank you
Upcoming Events
Program funding has been provided by The Maine Humanities Council and the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act economic stabilization plan of 2020.
Get involved!
Join as a member or donate to support our library, year-round programming and help restore our historic building.