Manatee County Libraries to Reduce Hours Beginning Aug. 1 Amid Hiring Freeze
The Manatee County Public Library System will implement reduced operating hours beginning Aug. 1 as it responds to a countywide hiring freeze while working to maintain library services.
County officials said the schedule changes are intended to preserve high-quality customer service despite staffing challenges caused by the hiring freeze.
Under the new schedule, Central Library, Palmetto Library, Rocky Bluff Library and South Manatee Library will be open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Those locations will be closed on Sundays.
Braden River Library and Lakewood Ranch Library will operate Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Island Library will be open Monday and Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Thursday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. It will remain closed on Sundays.
The Little Discovery Center will be open Monday through Saturday, offering appointments from 10 a.m. to noon, followed by open hours from noon to 4 p.m.
Library officials thanked residents for their patience, understanding and continued support, stating they remain committed to serving the community while the temporary staffing measures are in place.
A complete list of library hours and additional information is available at mymanatee.org/library.
