By Jon Knepp, Maine Library Association vice president Maine’s 257 public libraries along with its academic, school and special libraries open doors for every Mainer to free print and digital collections, libraries of things containing everything from apple slicers to xylophones and inspire creativity, inspiration and lifelong learning.

DOVER-FOXCROFT — The Piscataquis Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for its 2026 Business of the Year Award, an annual recognition honoring a Chamber member that demonstrates business excellence and a strong commitment to its community.

BANGOR — The American Red Cross urges people to celebrate the power of kindness by making an appointment to give lifesaving blood.

By Kim Brawn, Thompson Free Library Great expectations may be the title of a Dickens’ classic, but when it comes to psychology, having high expectations can lead to disappointment.

AUGUSTA — One of Maine’s most anticipated seasons is just around the corner, bringing brilliant color, harvest traditions and countless reasons to explore the state.

Sen.

By Cameron Levasseur, The County Staff The owner of 20 Maine nursing homes and assisted living centers is in the process of selling its facilities to an out-of-state healthcare group.

By Michael Shepherd, Bangor Daily News Staff A group of Maine gun-rights advocates asked the U.

By Kasey Turman, Bangor Daily News Staff KENDUSKEAG — Sen.

AUGUSTA — As part of its efforts to promote postsecondary access, upward mobility, and the growth of the state’s workforce, the University of Maine System will award academic credit for microcredentials earned by high school students through Jobs for Maine’s Graduates.

By Michael Shepherd, Bangor Daily News Staff Six people filed paperwork to run as write-in candidates against U.

By Christopher Burns, Bangor Daily News Staff EXETER — A man allegedly attacked his family Friday afternoon, Aug.

DEXTER — Students across the Dexter area will be starting classes soon with the first full day of school for all in SAD 46 on Thursday, Aug.

By Marie Weidmayer, Bangor Daily News Staff BANGOR — A man was sentenced to 35 years in prison for the murder of Dylan Caruso, and a second man pleaded guilty to his role in the Corinth man’s death.

By Sabrina Martin, Bangor Daily News Staff As of late July, the public can now access court records filed in Hancock and Washington counties through an online portal.

DEXTER — Drivers approaching the Liberty Street and Railroad Avenue intersection from every direction will soon have to come to a halt when it becomes a four-way stop.

DEXTER — He did not quite finish his plate, but one leftover bun did not matter as Alan Dill again earned top honors in Dexter Hannaford’s eating contest at the ninth annual Maine Red Hot Dog Festival Aug.

BANGOR — The American Red Cross continues to urge donors of all blood types to act now and make an appointment to give blood amid the ongoing national blood crisis.