UPDATE:  The library will NOT be closed on Fridays in 2010.

The City of Lafayette faces a challenging budget year in 2010.  All City departments, including the Library, will reduce their expenditures in order to meet the anticipated budget shortfall. 

As a result, Lafayette Public Library may be closed all day on Fridays, beginning March 5. This change is tentative, pending a final decision by the City Council on March 2.  We do expect to be open our regular hours the other six days of the week, all year long.

Please check back for updates.

Why Fridays?  Why not some other day?
We looked at all the options and determined that closing Fridays would have the least impact on the public while meeting our budget needs.

How will my checkouts be affected?
When we are closed on Fridays, books will never have a Friday due date. The closed days will not be included in the calculation of overdue fines, nor will they count as one of the three days that items are kept available for you on the hold shelf.

Will I be able to return my books?
You will be able to return books to the book drops outside the library building.

Will I be able to renew my books?
Yes, you will be able to renew your books through the online catalog with your library card.

Will I be able to put books on hold?
Yes, you will be able place holds through the online catalog with your library card. 

Will I be able to pick up holds or check out books?
No, because the building will be closed, it will not be possible to pick up your holds or check out materials on Fridays.

Will I have access to the Library’s databases?
Yes, if you have a Lafayette library card you will be able to use the Library’s databases from home or from other computers with internet access.

Will I still be able to access the Library web site?
Yes!   Our web based services will be available, even when we are closed. 

Will you be open again on Fridays in 2011?
We certainly hope so, but that will depend on the health of the local economy in 2010, which will determine whether or not  the 2011 City budget will be able to support restoration of Friday services.

What can I do to help?
First of all, do all that you can to support Lafayette businesses.  Lafayette’s economy is heavily dependent on local sales tax revenue, so the more you shop in Lafayette, the more your tax dollars support the Library and other City services.

Second, spread the word!  Make sure that your friends, neighbors, and local officials know that you value the Library and the services we provide.  Let them know that you believe the Library’s contributions to education, literacy, equal access to information, and quality of life make a real difference to our community.

Finally, continue to use the Library and to let us know what we can do for you.  Although we will be open fewer hours in 2010, we are committed to providing the same friendly, excellent service that we know you expect.

Have other questions or concerns?
We want to know what they are.  Please email your questions or call Library Director Betsy Stroomer at 303/665-5200, x3806.