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Dyer Library and Saco Museum trustees urge continued city support, detail programming and facility upgrades
Summary
Multiple trustees of the Dyer Library and Saco Museum addressed the council in support of sustained municipal funding, outlining recent partnerships, Wi‑Fi upgrades, private remote‑work spaces funded by a grant and expanded community programming.
Trustees from the Dyer Library and Saco Museum spoke during the FY2026 budget public hearing to request continued municipal support and to describe recent improvements and expanded services.
Steve Hewitt, a trustee, said the library and museum provide services for all ages including adult‑day programs, computer and printing services, meeting space for town organizations and children's programming. Rosemary Kane Kirby, president of the board of trustees, reviewed the board's three priorities after the longtime director's retirement: increasing community presence and partnerships, reorganizing staff to meet community needs and evaluating building space for better use. Kirby listed partnerships with Saco Main Street, Age Friendly Saco, Thornton Academy and the Seashore Trolley Museum and said the board invested in Wi‑Fi upgrades and received a grant to install private remote‑working meeting areas.
Jeff Coburn, a new trustee, urged adequate budget support so the library can serve as a "third place" where residents gather outside home and work. Library trustees thanked the city for past support and asked the council to continue funding, citing increased community programming and facility improvements.
Why it matters: the library and museum provide public services and community programming that intersect with municipal budget choices. Trustees described one‑time capital investments and ongoing operations that the council will consider as part of the school and municipal budget vote.
