Beginning August 2, Hours for Holds Pickup at Central Library Shifting to 4 PM - 7 PM Tuesday through Friday Due to Construction
Excavation in the center of Central Library is scheduled for the month of August. To protect staff and patrons from adverse effects of construction, especially high noise levels that will limit the ability to communicate, staff are shifting the hours of limited operations for holds pickup to 4 PM - 7 PM Tuesday through Friday beginning August 2, 2022. Saturday hours remain 10 AM - 5 PM.
This is expected to continue through mid-September.
Central Library will still be open for access to the Faulkner Galleries and restrooms. Central Library’s main phone number, (805) 962-7653, will still be answered from 10 AM - 5 PM Tuesday through Saturday.
Construction projects often experience delays or unexpected challenges, so we will be diligent to communicate any updates on our website, in our email newsletter, and on social media. We appreciate your flexibility as we build a better community space for learning!
Phase 1 Frequently Asked Questions
These will be updated when we move to Phase 2, stay tuned!
Can I still pick up holds at the Central Library?
Yes! The holds shelf will only be accessible to staff, but you will still be able to pick up holds at Central Library in the Lobby by showing your Library Card or ID to staff, who will retrieve and check out your holds, then deliver them to you in the Lobby.
I’m disappointed we can’t browse for materials. What are my options?
You can place holds on items if you know what you want, and we’ll pull the books or other materials from storage for you. If you’re not sure of the exact title, you can submit a Book Match request. A librarian will pull titles that fit your needs and can place them on hold for you, or send you a list of suggestions you can place on hold.
Is use of the microfilm machine and collection available?
This area is closed to the public due to construction and the microfilm machine is unavailable. We are digitizing a portion of the microfilm collection in partnership with a research institution, so much of it is also unavailable.
What if I need to use a computer, internet, or print?
We have laptops and hotspots available for checkout. Computers and printing will also be available at Eastside Library and Montecito Library.
What are my options for study or work space?
Visit the Eastside Library or Montecito Library for study and workspace. No seating or tables will be available in the Central Library.
I’m an Adult Literacy tutor or learner. Can we still use the Adult Education Center?
Adult Literacy tutors and learners are able to meet in the Faulkner Side Galleries on a first come, first serve basis, but the Adult Education office will not be available. If you need materials or resources, staff can pull materials for you.
I’m an OG Reader tutor or my child is an OG Reader student. Can we still meet at the Central Library?
OG Reader tutors and students can still meet in the Faulkner Side Galleries, but may find it more convenient to meet at Eastside Library, Montecito Library, or arrange to meet at a Library on the Go. Please discuss options with Library staff. We will work to find a solution for you.
Will the Faulkner Gallery be open?
Galleries will be open for art viewing. The Faulkner Galleries may also be reserved for meetings and events.
Can I still get my reference or account questions answered in person?
The only services available during this time is holds pickup. If you have questions, please call (805) 962-7653, use the contact form on the Library’s website for an email reply, or visit Eastside Library or Montecito Library.
I need a new or replacement Library card. Can you help with that?
Yes, Central Library staff will be able to issue new or replacement Library cards.
Will you be able to take payments for lost or damaged items or other outstanding account fees?
Payments may be made at Eastside Library or Montecito Library or in your online account in the Library catalog. Staff will not have access to a cash register or credit card processor during construction. Luckily, we recently forgave all outstanding charges on accounts for lost or damaged items when we migrated to a new catalog system so few people have charges on their account at this point in time.