Changes to daily schedule will help patrons plan visits and reduce service interruptions
PORTLAND, Ore. — Nov. 4, 2024. Beginning December 1, all Multnomah County library locations will have the same open hours, making it easier for library patrons to plan their visit. The new schedule will also apply to the library’s contact center, where patrons can get help by phone, email or chat.
New hours, effective December 1, 2024
- Monday: 10 am - 6 pm
- Tuesday: 12 - 8 pm
- Wednesday: 12 - 8 pm
- Thursday: 10 am - 6 pm
- Friday: 10 am - 6 pm
- Saturday: 10 am - 6 pm
- Sunday: 12 - 6 pm
The first significant update to libraries’ operating hours since 2013, this change will help patrons more easily understand when and how to use the library. It will also help the library streamline employee scheduling practices to reduce unplanned closures or other service interruptions. In total, libraries will be open about the same amount of time to the public each week, though the Contact Center will open later to coincide with library hours.
The library keeps up-to-date information on its Hours and Locations page that details each library’s operating schedule and also reflects any changes that occur due to inclement weather or other unforeseen conditions.
Library schedules are the end product of a complex planning process that ensures adequate staffing to serve patrons, provides safety and security staffing, and supports library staff in balancing other work duties.
“People in Multnomah County love their libraries and use them in different ways,” says Director of Libraries Annie Lewis. “The library is trying to balance the needs and wishes of families, working people and others by offering morning and evening hours on different days across Multnomah County.”
With this change, the library is not making budget reductions and it is not reducing staff, or cutting employees’ hours or pay. This change will take effect on Sunday, December 1, 2024. The library will update its signs and public information beginning that day to reflect the change.