NEWTON, Kan. — According to a weekend social media post from the Newton Public Library, they will remain open in their current building through 6 p.m. March 2, then they anticipate reopening in the new library on Monday, April 1.
They will continue to circulate materials right up until 6 p.m. on March 2, and due dates that would normally fall during the closure will be extended until they reopen.
During the closure, the public won’t be able to reach library staff by phone. The best ways to reach them will be email at [email protected] or Facebook message. Responses may be delayed, particularly during the week of March 4-8.
After the new library opens, there will still be ongoing work in Phase 2 to demolish the existing library and create off-street parking. This work is expected to be complete in late summer 2024.
Patrons are welcome to borrow items right up until closing time at 6 p.m. on March 2. The more you check out, the less they have to move.
Those who want to return items during the closure should be able to put them in the new library building’s exterior book drop, which is planned to be open during the move. However, there may be substantial delays in materials check-in, because the computer systems will be offline at various times during the transition.
The last day to request interlibrary loan materials will be Wednesday, Jan. 31. All interlibrary items will need to be returned no later than Feb. 29. This includes both community book club and general patron requests. Community book clubs that need books for March are encouraged to use Newton Public Library book sets.
The library’s collection of e-books and digital audiobooks is always available, 24/7. For more information on digital borrowing, visit www.newtonplks.org/ebooks, or contact the library.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)’s 2024 season will start at the current library building on Feb. 5, then move to Immanuel Baptist Church during the library closure, before concluding in the new facility.
VITA info sheets and packets are available now. For full VITA hours, dates and information, go to www.newtonplks.org/tax.
The ENLITE delivery service for patrons who are homebound or live in senior communities will not be offered during March.
Library-sponsored book clubs (Third Thursday, Mystery Lovers, Nonfiction and Sci-Fi/Fantasy) will not meet during March.
Follow Newton Public Library on Facebook to keep up to date with closing and opening announcements.
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