First Selectman Mike Tetreau and Town Librarian Dr. Helene Murtha are pleased to announce that beginning Saturday, February 3, 2018 hours of operation will be added back to the Fairfield Public Library, at both the Main Library and the Fairfield Woods Branch Library. The Fairfield Public Library Board of Library Trustees unanimously approved the decision at its meeting on Monday, January 22, 2018.

Effective February 3, the new hours are as follows:

Main Library:  

Monday-Thursday: 9:00am – 9:00pm
Friday & Saturday: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Sunday: 1:00pm-5:00pm (through mid-May)

Branch Library:

Monday-Thursday: 9:00am - 8:00pm
Friday & Saturday: 9:00am-5:00pm
Sunday: 1:00pm-5:00pm (through mid-May)

Last August, library hours were temporarily reduced in response to the State’s failure to pass a budget. Fairfield Public Library was just one of many public libraries across the State reducing hours in response to anticipated budget constraints. In the last 24 months, the Town lost about $5.5 million in state aid and more reductions are anticipated. As a result, the Town continues its strategic hiring freeze, hold on some capital projects, and efforts to grow the Grand List.

The day the newly expanded hours go into effect, February 3, coincides with the 7th Annual Take Your Child to the Library Day (TYCLD). Families are invited and encouraged to join the party in the Children’s Room at the Main Library from 10am to 4pm. Families can enjoy a special musical performance by Mr. Joe, crafts, a scavenger hunt and more! Registration is required for the Mr. Joe performance and drop-in for other activities.

TYCLD is an international initiative that encourages families everywhere to take their children to their local library. Launched in 2011 right here in Connecticut, TYCLD raises community awareness about the importance of the library in the life of a child, and promotes library services and programs for children and families.

Dr. Helene Murtha said, “We are absolutely thrilled to have the library operating on its full schedule and be able to provide opportunities for our patrons to get more access to one of the most valuable public resources in town. While the annual Take Your Child to the Library Day is the perfect day to celebrate the library’s expanded availability with our youngest patrons, the expanded hours means all patrons will have the resources they need to flourish and succeed.”

Chairman of the Board of Library Trustees Sonal Rajan stated, “Because of the current economic climate, demand for services is increasing and access to libraries is even more essential. People with different circumstances and needs require their libraries at different times. Whether seeking a job, attending a story hour, completing a school project, researching a new business, volunteering time, participating in a book club or checking out the latest best seller, patrons of all ages will have now time for in-depth pursuit of what they seek from the Fairfield Public Library.”

First Selectman Tetreau said, “Fairfield’s libraries have always been a great source of pride for our community. I am thankful our libraries will be open longer to continue to serve and enrich our residents, especially our children.”

He added, “The temporary change in hours last August was one of the unfortunate consequences of the State’s financial crisis that continues to negatively impact Fairfield, and every other town in Connecticut. Fortunately, our conservative and cautious budget planning, strong financial standing, and departments adhering to my request to manage as efficiently as possible help us navigate these rough waters and continue to effectively manage our town.”

The Fairfield Public Library will post signage at both libraries and update its website and Facebook page to communicate these changes. The Friends of the Fairfield Public Library will also share these changes with its members.

For more information, please contact www.fairfieldpubliclibrary.org or 203-256-3161.

The photo shows, l-r: Danielle Sharp, Director of Development, Friends of Fairfield Public Library,
Board of Library Trustees Chair Sonal Rajan, Town Librarian Dr. Helene Murtha, First Selectman Mike Tetreau and Friends of Fairfield Public Library President Margo Kaminsky