Rochester Public Library Hires New Emerging Technologies Specialist

ROCHESTER — A familiar face is taking on a new role at the Rochester Public Library.

Jessica Carroll started as the new Library Emerging Technologies Specialist on Tuesday, Feb. 18. She’s worked at the library for 13 years, most recently as a Circulation and Technology Services member and as a library page.

“I tend to give a lot of people at the library tech help already, so this was a way to really focus on that,” Carroll said.

Carroll is the first Library Emerging Technologies Specialist at the Rochester Public Library. Library Director Brian Sylvester was inspired to create the position after learning about other libraries in the state with a similar position, like the Portsmouth Public Library.

“The overall goal is to provide tech support to the public,” Sylvester said. “People will come in with the tech questions they have and Jessica will help them out.”

Carroll will be available throughout the week to answer any tech-related questions patrons may have about their devices. She will also be holding walk-in events on Thursday nights and Friday mornings, where residents can bring in their devices to get help. She will additionally be hosting educational events and programs for the public. There is no cost to patrons to receive the help.

Details about the first educational program will be announced this spring, as more information becomes available.

Currently, the position is part-time, though Sylvester hopes it can become full-time in the future to meet the needs of residents.

Those looking for help can ask for Carroll at the circulation desk. Any upcoming educational events will be posted on the Rochester Public Library’s website.

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