New standard library hours begin on December 1

A man leans against bookshelves reading a book in Midland Library.

Beginning on December 1, all Multnomah County libraries will have the same open hours. This change will allow library patrons to plan visits more easily and reduce confusion due to differing hours at different library locations. 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 to 6 pm
  • Tuesday: 12 to 8 pm
  • Wednesday: 12 to 8 pm
  • Thursday: 10 am to 6 pm
  • Friday: 10 am to 6 pm
  • Saturday: 10 am to 6 pm
  • Sunday: 12 to 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. 

“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.