Library Closures for Independence Day - July 4, 2017

All WCCLS member libraries will be closed next Tuesday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day.

Libraries will return to their regular schedules July 5. Please check our schedule for your library's hours.

Our online resources and digital library are always available.

Have a safe and fun Fourth of July!

Cool off at your WCCLS Library this weekend

Washington County Public Health is reminding people to take precautions over the next few days to avoid heat-related illnesses, such as heat cramps, heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

“If your home doesn’t have air conditioning, find a place to stay cool. Consider visiting a library or indoor shopping mall to get away from the heat,” says Deputy Health Officer Dr. Christina Baumann. “Also, please remember to check on any vulnerable neighbors.”

Check your library's hours for this weekend - they all have air conditioning!

Tualatin Public Library will be open extended hours on Saturday (10AM-9PM) and Sunday (1PM-9PM).

In addition, please see this public health press release for a comprehensive list of places to beat the heat this weekend in Washington County. Washington County will also post any updates to cooling center information.

Tips for Staying Cool:

• Stay in an air-conditioned indoor location as much as possible.
• Do not rely on a fan as your primary cooling device when it is very hot.
• Avoid strenuous activities in the heat of the day.
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Take cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature. Find a splash pad or fountain.
• Don’t use your stove, oven, washer or dryer on very hot days. 
• Eat small, light meals.
• Close your blinds and curtains to keep sunlight out.
• If the temperature falls at night and it’s safe to do so, open your windows to let the cool air in.

Stay hydrated:

• Drink plenty of fluids, especially while working or exercising outside.
• Avoid alcohol or sugary beverages.
• Check for symptoms and treatment of heat-related illnesses.

Fine rates changing for Adult and Young Adult materials

WCCLS is pleased to announce that fine rates for Young Adult and Adult materials in all formats will become 25¢ per day effective July 1, 2017.

As WCCLS Director Eva Calcagno noted, “WCCLS member libraries have undertaken this change to simplify the policy - charging one rate of 25¢ per day for Young Adult and Adult materials, regardless of format – books, CDs, DVDs, etc. Fine rates for print and recorded materials had not been adjusted since 2003 and the video fine rate has been the same since the 1980's.”

This change is step two in a two-part process to adjust overdue fine rates for all patrons. WCCLS implemented a new no-fine policy for all children’s (juvenile) material materials on June 1 of this year.

What is not changing is that WCCLS will continue to bill patrons for replacement charges for all materials that are never returned, or are lost or damaged.

For more information, read here.

Banks Public Library begins Community Room construction

Banks Public Library began construction of the Jane Moore Community Room on June 1.

During construction, several traffic, parking, and building entry changes will occur:

• Driveway closed to through traffic
• Parking is on Market Street or the center spaces in the adjacent church parking lot
• Library entrance is the south lobby door, from Market Street
• Book drops are not available. During closed hours, library materials may be returned to any WCCLS library.

The Library will be open regular hours, with some short-term closures and noise. Construction hours are 7:00AM to 4:00PM. Construction is scheduled to be completed by mid-October.

Update: The Banks Library will be closed August 7-12. Check their website for additional updates.