Tacoma Public Library Expands 3 Branches to Six-Day Schedule Starting January 6

Tacoma, Washington, December 13, 2018 (Newswire.com) - 3 Tacoma Public Library branches, Moore, Wheelock, and Kobetich will be open six days per week during the public school year, beginning Sunday, January 6. The Moore and Wheelock branches are the system’s “regional” libraries and busiest locations, while Kobetich geographically triangulates library services that will available in Tacoma on Sundays. All 3 locations will be open from 1-5 p.m.

The Tacoma City Council approved Library Director Kate Larsen’s proposal for instituting the six-day schedule as part of the City’s biennial budget, in November. Since then, the Library has been making arrangements to expand service from the current schedule that has branches open only 40 hours per week.

"Our residents know how critical libraries are to keeping neighborhoods safe and expanding access to the quality of life opportunities Tacoma offers. The new schedule ensures children can access critical learning resources," Larsen said. "We know from usage data at our neighboring library systems that the community wants its public libraries to be open on Sundays, so we're thrilled to start the new schedule."

Kate Larsen, Library Director

Tacoma closed 2 branch libraries and reduced overall library operating hours in 2011 as part of the city’s overall budget-balancing efforts during the Great Recession.

Funding for the new six-day schedule comes from the City’s General Fund.

Based on current daily usage, Tacoma Public Library expects the additional days of service will create significant weekly benefits for the community including: more customers being able to use the Library; additional youth homework needs served; more library items borrowed or renewed; more uses of public computers; and potentially more engagement programs offered across the 3 branches for patrons of all ages.

About Tacoma Public Library

Tacoma Public Library (TPL) was formed in 1889, with its main library opening 1903. The Library now operates 8 branches and serves a culturally diverse population of just over 200,000. TPL focuses its efforts on knowledge access, community learning and public technology. Staff strives to ensure that every library customer’s experience is exceptional. For more information, visit tacomalibrary.org

Source: Tacoma Public Library