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When the Maine Library Commission met Monday to consider new standards for the state’s public libraries, commissioners faced pushback from directors
of some of Maine’s smallest libraries.
The strongest objections to the new standards and agreement, which require public libraries to sign on to keep full state services, came from Washington County. Most were tied to the Pembroke Library Association, including volunteers, donors and patrons.
The Maine Library Commission set a Jan. 1 deadline for libraries to sign the new agreement, but as directors learned about the requirements — some during fall listening sessions with Maine State Library staff members and others through recent Monitor Local reporting — they raised concerns about the cost, particularly at smaller libraries run entirely by volunteers and offering limited hours.
The new agreement requires libraries to pay staff in line with federal and state wage laws, and remain open at least 12 hours a week. Libraries that fail to meet the standards would lose access to interlibrary loan and internet services.
During Monday’s meeting, a Pembroke supporter stressed the importance of library internet service for patrons seeking jobs. Afterward, Monitor Local heard from others who noted that many Washington County residents lack computers or internet access and rely on local libraries to file for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, benefits and other essential services.
After hearing concerns from library directors, commissioners tabled a vote until they could get a legal opinion from the Office of the Maine Attorney General on the new requirements and allow Maine State Library staff members to meet with directors from libraries affected by the rules.
A meeting has been scheduled for Dec. 2 for the Maine State Library staff to review key membership requirements under the new agreement and discuss the implementation plan with library directors, including support available to help libraries comply.
The importance of libraries to Maine communities, especially the smallest ones, has come into sharp focus in recent weeks as the deadline for directors to sign agreements approaches.
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Under pressure, Maine Library Commission postpones vote to adopt new requirements for
libraries: The unanimous vote followed an outpouring of criticism of the proposed requirements. Commissioners will seek a legal opinion on the agreement’s requirements before voting on the document. Read this story by Judith Meyer
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Machias runs through four public hearings on county tax anticipation note, solar and more: On Dec. 3, voters are to consider options for covering Machias’ share of Washington County’s $8 million debt. Read this story by Evan Houk
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Machias approves $100 raffle prize for comprehensive plan survey: The prize is an incentive for residents to complete a survey seeking input on housing, land use, public services, economic development and more. Read this story by Evan Houk
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Calais officials not interested in bailing out Washington County: The city’s share of the bailout proposal is $381,000, but councilors refused to discuss it this week. They want to know more about where the money will be spent and what cuts the county has proposed to draw down its debt. Read this story by Ethan Bien
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Calais charter amendments to take effect Jan. 1: Councilor Peter Foster, who is employed by the Calais School Department, is ‘grandfathered’ in under earlier charter language and will retain his seat through his current term. Read this story by Judith Meyer
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While The Maine Monitor does not place its content behind paywalls, some newsrooms we link to in this newsletter may.
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One found dead in Meddybemps home after fire, officials say. | WMTW
The state has filed $4 million in liens against eastern Maine service agency Downeast Community Partners. | Bangor Daily News
The Maine Human Rights Commission has sued five school districts, including the Baileyville School District, over transgender policies. | Bangor Daily News and The Maine Monitor
Wood banks in Maine are increasing in number; so is the need for heat. | Maine Public
Washington County asks towns to pay taxes early to address budget crisis. | The Maine Monitor and Bangor Daily News
Maine's economy has seen progress in the labor force and broadband initiatives, but housing costs remain a challenge. | News Center Maine
A push to boost U.S. commercial shipping could present opportunities for Maine. | Ellsworth American
Maine electric prices to hit highest level in three years. | Maine Public
Lobster boats must keep using tracking devices for government observation, court rules. | Associated Press
Amid long lines at the BMV, Maine launches REAL ID online renewal. | Spectrum News Maine
Jonesboro Union Church warming center opens. | WQDY
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Have feedback, a correction or know of something we should look into? Send it to our newsroom. You can reach Monitor Local editor Judy Meyer directly via email: judy@themainemonitor.org.
The Maine Monitor is a publication of the Maine Center for Public Interest Reporting, an independent and nonpartisan nonprofit news organization that produces investigative journalism. We believe news is a public good and keep our news free to access. We have no paywall and do not charge for our newsletters. If you value the reporting we do for Maine, please consider making a donation! We cannot do this reporting without your support.
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