Celebrate the Semiquincentennial!

This year marks the 250th anniversary (or “semiquincentennial”) of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, recognizing the founding of the United States. The Bangor Public Library has a number of activities and programs to celebrate this special year. We will be adding more information to this page so be sure to check back here or subscribe to the library’s email newsletter.

Dunlap Broadside of the Declaration of Independence
September 17-19, 2026

The Maine Historical Society stewards one of 26 surviving copies of the Dunlap Broadside of the Declaration printed in Philadelphia on July 4, 1776, and sent to the Colonies to announce American independence. From July to October 2026, the Declaration will travel across Maine to all 16 counties with great pomp and circumstance.

The Bangor Public Library is honored to be the tour location for Penobscot County! 

Free timed-tickets are now available.

Curious about the different copies of the Declaration of Independence on display? Check out this resource: Which Version is This, and Why Does it Matter?