JERSEY CITY, NJ — A major branch of the Jersey City Public Library has shut down due to the failure of its heating, cooling, and ventilation systems, the library announced suddenly on Thursday evening.
"The Jersey City Free Public Library has made the difficult decision to temporarily close the Five Corners Branch due to the failure of the building's original heating, cooling, and ventilation systems, which can no longer be repaired or maintained through temporary solutions," the library system said in a statement.
"For years, JCFPL has invested in short-term measures to keep the branch open, but those efforts are no longer sustainable. Because the building also requires environmental remediation before major repairs can be made, a long-term solution is necessary."
The building, in a historic section of Journal Square where five roads meet, will still have a bookmobile outside, the staff said.
"Our priority is ensuring the Five Corners community continues to have access to library services," said the statement. "One of our Bookmobiles will be stationed outside the branch, and we are actively working to secure an additional temporary location to provide expanded library services during this transition.While these temporary services will help meet immediate needs, they are not a replacement for a neighborhood library.
"JCFPL is actively exploring options for a new permanent home for the Five Corners Branch, one that is safe, accessible, and built to serve the community for generations to come.
"We understand this closure is difficult for our patrons, families, students, and staff, and we sincerely appreciate your patience and support as we work toward a lasting solution. Updates will be shared as they become available."
A spokesman for Mayor James Solomon said, "The mayor and his leadership team are working closely with JCFPL leadership to find a solution for the Journal Square community. Decisions like closing a branch are difficult, but JCFPL leadership are making the best decision for patrons and their staff given the condition of the build. JCFPL will keep the community updated."
The city is currently struggling with budget issues, and recently passed a $886 million spending plan with a 15 percent tax increase.
The Jersey City announcement came the same day as an announcement from the Hoboken Library that its main branch would be shut for renovations for nearly two months.
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