FOLLOWUP: Southwest Library won’t reopen today as planned

(Southwest Branch, WSB file photo)

We’ve just learned that the Southwest Library HVAC work wasn’t finished in time to reopen the branch today as planned. We’re told that insulation work is a major component of what remains. They’re not sure yet if they’ll reopen before Thanksgiving. So if you need to visit a library this week, here’s a reminder that Seattle Public Library has four other area branches – High Point, Delridge, West Seattle (Admiral), and South Park; the King County Library System has the White Center branch, too. All libraries will be closed Thursday for Thanksgiving.

Harvey November 20, 2023 (10:54 am)

“The branch book return will also be closed during this time.”… in case this saves someone a trip

anonyme November 20, 2023 (10:56 am)

I checked the website twice this morning to make sure the branch was open before I hiked up there. The construction notification had not changed at 7, but by nine the notice was gone and the regular hours had been re-posted. I walked all the way up there only to find the library was still closed. Not everyone can drive, much less trek around the city looking for a drop box. Nor do I get why no one at SPL knew about the delay until less than an hour before the scheduled re-opening – and if they did, couldn’t bother to communicate it to clients.

WSB November 20, 2023 (11:33 am)

Sorry, they called us and I published this minutes later.
- anonyme November 20, 2023 (2:41 pm)
  
  My criticism was of the library’s communication, not of the WSB’s. But I appreciate the sympathy!

ReadingRainbow November 20, 2023 (11:58 am)

Thank you WSB for this update and for saving me a trip! No mention of the delay on the SPL website so it was a lifesaver. Hope they consider automatically renewing items that were checked out here (including Peak Picks) so that items that are now over 14 days overdue don’t cause the account to be suspended and the use of electronic resources like certain magazine access to likewise be suspended. It can be difficult for certain people to return items at other locations so I know the courtesy would be appreciated. Thanks!

Librarian November 21, 2023 (7:13 pm)

Peak Picks can’t be renewed. The system blocks staff from doing so.

HS November 20, 2023 (12:16 pm)

Darn. I received a notification that my holds were ready for pickup today.

LAR November 20, 2023 (2:45 pm)

I did too. Hope they hold them

BLK November 20, 2023 (8:05 pm)

OMG people – get a grip. It’s a minor inconvenience, not the end of the world. Focus on how nice it’ll be next summer when the branch doesn’t have to close because it’s little warm outside.