Biddeford Saco Chamber of Commerce

CULTURAL ACTIVITIES
City Theater

The theater itself was designed by noted architect John Calvin Stevens and first opened in 1896. The 500+ seat theater is recognized as one of the finest Victorian opera houses in the country and has been included on the National Register of Historic Sites. Check their Web Site for details on coming events: www.citytheater.org

Saco Museum

One of Maine's oldest museums, located on Main Street, Saco, has played a significant role in the cultural history of southern Maine since 1866. The Museum houses an exceptional collection from the Federal period (1780-1820), as well as paintings and decorative arts associated with local history from the 17th century to the 20th century. The galleries feature furniture, paintings, textiles, glass, silver and other objects from 18th and 19th century families. An exciting schedule of programming accompanies each exhibit, including art classes, craft demonstrations, movies, lectures and concerts.

Dyer Library

The Saco Dyer Library provides many volumes, an audio visual library, magazines and a reference department with an extensive index collection and state and federal census publications. There is a history room which houses manuscripts, city records, 18th and 19th century newspapers, and genealogy records. The children's room has books, videos, audio/cassettes, exhibits, story hour and other fun activities. Through computer technology, shared resources and innovative programming, the Library provides comprehensive services for all. Other services available are copy machines, tax classes and meeting rooms.

McArthur Library

The Biddeford McArthur Library provides the loan of books, magazines and audio-visual materials, in-house and telephone reference service and inter-library loan. Services, such as on-line computer database searching, CD-ROM based information products and MaineCat, a computerized listing of the state's library resources are also available. The children's library, named the Junior Room houses one of the largest collections of children's books in the state and provides numerous programs including story time. The library also serves as an area cultural center presenting art exhibits, concerts and lectures throughout the year.