Hartford Libraries Open Cooling Centers as Heat and Humidity Grip Region

HARTFORD, CT — The Hartford Public Library System will open all of its branch locations as cooling centers during regular business hours as dangerous heat and humidity are expected across the region through Thursday, July 2.

Library officials said the air-conditioned facilities will provide residents with a safe place to cool off during the heat wave, which is forecast to begin Tuesday, June 30.

All Hartford Public Library locations will be closed Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day. Regular operating hours will resume on Monday, July 6.

The following branches will serve as cooling centers during their regular hours:

• Downtown Library, 500 Main St.: Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Albany Library, 1250 Albany Ave.: Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Barbour Library, 261 Barbour St.: Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. (On the second and fourth Thursdays of the month, the branch is open from 3 to 6 p.m. to accommodate Connecticut Foodshare distribution.)
• Camp Field Library, 30 Campfield Ave.: Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Dwight Library, 7 New Park Ave.: Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Park Street Library @ the Lyric, 603 Park St.: Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Ropkins Library, 1750 Main St.: Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Library officials encouraged individuals and families seeking relief from the heat to visit any of the participating branches, where they can cool down while also taking advantage of library services and resources.

For the State of Connecticut announcement regarding hot weather protocols, click on this link.