If you’re a frequent library user, then you are likely aware of the ongoing construction project underway to replace the library’s dated fire suppression system. Our north building, where the meeting room spaces are located, has been closed to the public since mid-December, and that phase of the project is nearing completion. Once that phase is complete, the library buildings must be closed to the public for two weeks to accommodate part of the construction and the move of library services to the north building. We have learned that this two-week period is likely to be May 5-18.

As many people can understand, these dates could shift in the coming weeks, and we will update social media and our website if any changes to these dates are made. During May 5-18, the library will offer limited services for slightly shortened times, which include Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1-5 p.m. The services that will be available include:

• Hold placement and pick up with curbside delivery
• Reference and circulation assistance by phone
• Newspaper and magazine checkout for one-hour periods (also available through our curbside service)

We will not be able to provide printing, copying, computer usage, or notary services during this time, but staff will offer listings of locations where these services are accessible. Patrons with full borrowing privileges are eligible to borrow Chromebooks and hotspots, and the library’s Wi-Fi will remain available. OSU’s Edmon Low Library also allows the public to use their computers if they check in at their Help Desk.

While the building is closed, staff will move a portion of the library’s book collection, periodicals, the children’s area, and patron internet computers to the library’s north building. When the library building reopens on May 19, operations will be in the north building with the following planned locations:

• North lobby – circulation services (checking out books, paying fines, applying for library cards, etc.)
• Room 119 – Limited adult fiction and nonfiction, young adult, and comics to browse and check out
• Auditorium (2nd floor) – Children’s area with limited books to browse and borrow, children’s filtered computers, and storytime space
• Reception Area (3rd floor) – Adult internet computers, reference services, and periodicals

The library will continue to hold most of our programs offsite (including our summer reading programs), and meeting room use will remain very limited. Books not moved over to the north building can still be borrowed by placing holds on the items. 

We truly appreciate everyone’s patience and flexibility during this time. Please know that we are doing our best to ensure as minimal of a disruption in access and services as possible. If dates have to be adjusted or if some of our plans will change, we promise to update you through all available communication channels.

Please be sure to check our website for updates at stillwaterok.gov/LibraryConstruction and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @StillwaterOKLib.