By Dave Ryan

CAMBRIDGE – Staff at the Dorchester County Public Library in Cambridge are reaching out to the public to gain support for renovations to the facility’s meeting room.

A Jan. 20 statement said the room was flooded several times last summer due to clogged storm drains in the area. Carpeting, wood paneling and the room’s wooden stage were damaged and had to be removed.

“We are seeking any financial support, as this project is reaching the $30,000 range,” the statement said. “We hope to create a safely revamped space for library programs, free tax help, and community use.”

Work is underway and is hoped to be completed by the end of the month.

Librarian Julie Kennedy posted online, “If you’re willing and able to help bring this community space back to life, checks can be made out to the Dorchester County Public Library and can be mailed or dropped off at either branch location. Every little bit helps and is much appreciated!”

Checks can be made out to the Dorchester County Public Library with “meeting room” noted.

In other library news, due to ongoing staffing shortages and the COVID-19 surge, the Cambridge branch has adjusted hours, effective Jan. 18: Monday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Tuesday 12-8 p.m.; Wednesday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Thursday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Friday curbside only, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday curbside only, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; and Sunday, closed.

The Hurlock Library branch will continue its current operational hours, unless otherwise noted.

“All of this is subject to change with the fluctuations and high contagion rate of the COVID-19 variants,” a statement from the library said. “Stay safe!”