News
August 15, 2018Albany Public Library to Expand Operating Hours
Albany Public Library will extend hours at three branches on Thursdays starting on Sept. 6. The decision to expand service hours was made by the APL Board of Trustees at its July meeting.
“The number one request I hear is for more hours at our locations,” said APL Executive Director Scott C. Jarzombek. “Library staff, administrators, and trustees have been discussing usage patterns, patron needs, and staffing options. And I’m pleased to announce that we will be adding six hours to our operating schedule starting Thursday, Sept. 6.”
APL is extending hours at three library locations:
• Howe Branch | 105 Schuyler St. | Open two hours earlier, at 10 am, on Thursday mornings
• Pine Hills Branch | 517 Western Ave. | Open two hours earlier, at 10 am, on Thursday mornings
• Washington Ave. Branch | 161 Washington Ave. | Open two hours later, until 8 pm, on Thursday evenings
These three “anchor” branches were selected for additional hours because they are the largest libraries in their Albany service areas. The rest of the branch operating schedules remain the same.
“Thursday mornings were chosen as we already have programming running during this time and see a need for more accessibility for our older patrons,” Jarzombek said. “The additional Thursday evening opens up more availability for community groups to reserve meeting rooms later in the day.”
The library board and administration will continue to examine the budget, staffing, and usage in an effort to determine ways to further expand hours for patrons.
