PRESS RELEASE

Long Beach, CA – Beginning August 2, 2022, through the end of the year, three Long Beach Public Library (LBPL) locations, Alamitos, Brewitt and Dana Neighborhood Libraries, will temporarily shift operations to a “To-Go” model of service. This will allow LBPL to continue to meet residents’ needs for print and audiovisual materials while navigating staffing shortages brought on by retirements, vacancies and the ongoing pandemic. All other LBPL locations, including Billie Jean King Main Library, will continue normal library services and remain open to the public.

“Libraries and the services and resources we provide play an important role in many residents’ lives,” said Library Director Cathy De Leon. “This temporary, modified staffing model will stabilize our staffing resources to ensure we continue providing literary and educational resources and programming for our community.” 

In order to keep the remaining libraries in the system fully staffed and open, staffing from the three libraries will be redeployed. The library system has experienced periodic closures due to low staffing, and this new model will create a more stable staffing system.

During this time, public computer areas, reading rooms and restrooms will be closed and public programs, meeting room use, browsing and computer printing will not be offered. While current programming at these locations will be canceled, similar programs will be available at other LBPL branches nearby. The Alamitos, Brewitt and Dana branches will continue to provide print and audiovisual resources such as books, DVDs, and Chromebooks for Library cardholders by acting as pickup locations. Residents may call these locations during regular hours to place items on hold for pickup. Cardholders can also place holds for items through the online catalog for pickup at these locations. Staff will meet patrons at the library entrance during regular hours to hand deliver requested items. Additionally, during this time, residents may also apply for and pick up new library cards and cardholders participating in the Summer Reading Program may pick up earned prizes at these locations.

Starting August 2, Alamitos (562.570.1037), Brewitt (562.570.1040) and Dana (562.570.1042) Neighborhood Libraries will be accessible by phone and for item pick up during regular Library hours:

• Tuesdays and Thursdays, noon to 7 p.m.
• Wednesdays, noon to 6 p.m.
• Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This is a temporary, short-term measure that is projected to remain in place through December 2022, and no funding for libraries is being reduced. After that time, these locations will resume all normal library operations. More information about LBPL services and programs is available by calling the Long Beach Public Library at 562.570.7500 or at lbpl.org.