Dyer Library wants to know how it can better accommodate remote workers

The Dyer Library in Saco wants to hear from community members regarding how it can better accommodate remote workers.

Executive Director Sophie Smith is hosting a listening session at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 11 to hear from remote workers about the needs they see in increasing Dyer Library’s capacity to serve them.

The Dyer Library, located at 371 Main St., received a $34,000 grant from the Maine State Library and the Maine State Department of Economic and Community Development to be used to help establish or expand services for remote workers. The Dyer Library was one of 39 libraries that were awarded funding through the “Remote Work through Libraries” initiative. The awards range from $5,000 to $100,000, utilizing Federal funds made possible by Governor Janet Mills’ Maine Jobs and Recovery Plan, according to a 2023 press release from the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development.

Smith said the library regularly sees people bringing in their laptops to do some work or using the facility as a meeting space.

“The spaces we have at present aren't as conducive to focused work or conversation as we would like to be able to offer--for example, the frequently occupied study carrels are located right across from the public bathroom and amidst the teen area--needless to say, it is a high traffic spot. Yet I've seen folks taking Zoom meetings from there because it is one of only a few places where there's space to get it done,” she said.

The library recently upgraded its WIFI and printing services, and Smith said the staff would love to be able to give patrons a bit more privacy for work meetings.

“We'll never be able to offer the ongoing, consistent remote work environment that a dedicated coworking facility offers, but our goal is to provide a short-term solution for those who need it,” she said.

Publisher Liz Gotthelf can be reached at newsdesk@sacobaynews.com.