BATH

Patten Free Library is providing expanded hours on Saturdays, and a new computer system for patrons who use library computers and the wireless internet system.

Patten Free Libary is now open three hours longer on Saturdays. The new schedule will be 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., through Memorial Day.  After Memorial Day, the library will resume its summer hours and close at 1 p.m.  The library hours on other days will remain the same: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays.

The installation of fiber optic cable was made possible by the recent completion of Maine Fiber Company’s 1,100-mile fiber optic network in the state of Maine. 

In 2009, a coalition of Maine state officials, representatives of the University of Maine System, and Maine telecommunications companies successfully applied for funds through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to enhance broadband access in rural Maine.  In accordance with the initial federal grant application, a portion of the network was reserved for use by the University of Maine System and the state of Maine. As a result, Patten got the free upgrade to fiber optic cable through its participation in the Maine State Library Network.

“We’re pleased to be able to offer both expanded hours and enhanced services to our patrons,” said library director Lesley Dolinger.  Dolinger pointed out that job seekers make up a good percentage of those using the library’s computer and printing capability.  She said she expects that many will use the computers for researching health care options under the Affordable Care Act when the exchanges open on Oct. 1.

“The fiber optic network will really help in these areas, because it is ten times faster than what we had before.  Patrons should notice a big difference,” she said.