ME LD1404

State Librarian will convene a 15-member working group to study the status of school and public libraries in Maine, with members representing library associations, school administrators, nonprofit libraries, municipal libraries, and state agencies

Working group must study library services for specific populations (seniors 55+, individuals with disabilities, youth, immigrant/migrant communities, tribal communities, remote residents) and examine libraries' roles in emergency preparedness, public health, economic development, and community resiliency

Study areas include library partnerships, facilities (accessibility, safety, energy efficiency), technology resources, cybersecurity, staffing levels, and library management models from other states

Report with findings and recommendations due to the Legislature by November 1, 2027, including proposed updates to statutes and funding recommendations for capital and ongoing needs

Appropriates $9,000 in General Fund money for both FY 2025-26 and FY 2026-27 to cover an outside facilitator and mileage reimbursement for up to 12 meetings