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Neighbor News

Princeton Public Library cooling system work to affect services

Sands Library Building to be closed June 16. Elevated temps expected through May 24. Additional closures possible.

Replacement of cooling tower infrastructure will resulted in significantly warmer temperatures in the Sands Library Building of Princeton Public Library May 15-24.
Replacement of cooling tower infrastructure will resulted in significantly warmer temperatures in the Sands Library Building of Princeton Public Library May 15-24. (Tim Quinn for Princeton Public Library)

Work continues on the replacement of cooling tower equipment, which is essential to the continued operation of Princeton Public Library’s air conditioning system.

“We are committed to remaining open as much as possible during this time and think our valued customers should know how they might be affected by this work,” said Jennifer Podolsky, the library’s executive director.

Here’s what visitors need to know about May 15-24 at the Sands Library Building:

KEY DATES

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  • May 15 — The air conditioning system will be shut down and remain off until work is completed.
  • May 16 — The building will be closed while new equipment is placed on the roof and old equipment removed. This transfer will be done by a crane on Witherspoon Street, which will be closed while work is underway.
  • May 24 — The air conditioning system will be restarted. This process is expected to take several hours.

WHAT IT MEANS FOR VISITORS

  • The building will be significantly warmer.
  • The circulating fans that are part of the air conditioning system may be turned off during this work.
  • We may have to close on short notice if the building becomes too hot.
  • Study Room reservations are being accepted but please be aware that cancellations are possible due to closures. Those who reserve will be notified via email or text message (if mobile phone number is provided) if your reservation changes.
  • Spaces will not be available to rent until after May 24.
  • All extended-use fees accrued May 15-24 will be waived. Hold pickup deadlines will be extended.

WHY NOW?

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Given the capital appropriation and competitive bidding processes for public institutions, this was the earliest possible date the work could be done. The library did not want to risk a loss of air conditioning during summer, when we are relied upon as a municipal cooling station.

OUR BEST ADVICE

Library administrations urge everyone to check our website or call 609-924-9529 before visiting. The website will have the latest information about potential closures.

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