Library opens workspace for sled dog race reporters

The Fort Kent Public Library is opening up the new remote shared work space as a resource for the media representatives coming to the region to cover the Can-Am Crown International Sled Dog Races. The C3NT3R is a grant-funded facility the library has installed to support remote workers in the Upper St. John Valley. The name stands for Community Neighborhood Navigation Network Technology Rural research Resource. The facility provides workstations, printing, conference tools, free wireless, tablet notebook computers and other typical office equipment. Library Director Andrew Birden has covered the races as a journalist in the past, and he will be on hand to answer questions for journalists and photographers covering the iconic races. (Courtesy image)

FORT KENT, Maine —  As the excitement of the Can-Am Crown International Sled Dog Races engulfs downtown Fort Kent on March 1, media representatives will find a haven of tranquility and resources at the Fort Kent Public Library’s C3NT3R. This shared remote workspace, conveniently located within walking distance of the race’s starting line on Main Street, will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, offering a perfect spot to file reports, edit images and conduct interviews amidst the cheers and barks of 600-900 sled dogs.

The C3NT3R (which stands for Community Neighborhood Navigation Network Technology Rural Research Resource) is equipped with workstations, free wireless Internet, printing services, tablet notebook computers and other essential office facilities tailored for reporters. 

This initiative, funded by a grant aimed at providing shared workspaces in rural Maine, highlights the library’s commitment to supporting journalism and the community’s vibrant events. With the Can-Am Crown attracting over 50 participants nationwide, despite the challenges of warm weather and scarce snow affecting other races, Fort Kent’s ample snowfall ensures a thrilling competition.

Library Director Andrew Birden emphasizes the synergy between the race’s excitement and the library’s resources, stating, “This year’s race looks to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. Because the FKPL is situated so close to the start of the race, using our new remote shared workspace in conjunction with the start of the race just made sense. The C3NT3R is a perfect facility to support the journalists and professional photographers and videographers that cover this event in such a remote location.”

The library encourages reporters and media companies to make a donation to support this service in the future.”

The Fort Kent Public Library, located at 1 Monument Square, serves as a central hub for the Greater Fort Kent Region and Upper St. John Valley, offering a wide range of multimedia materials for education, improvement, and enjoyment.

For more information, please contact Birden at andrewbirden22@gmail.com or call 207-834-3048.