The Houston Public Library has announced the closure of Freed-Montrose Neighborhood Library and plans for a new location. The Freed-Montrose Neighborhood Library, located at Montrose Blvd. and Colquitt St., will close down operations at the end of business today.
It is expected that HPL will open its new and improved library facility in the fall of 2024 to better serve the community. Construction is already underway for the new Freed-Montrose Neighborhood Library, which will be in the Montrose Collective mixed-use shopping center located on California Street, about four minutes away. The press release emphasizes that the new location offers the community an enhanced and contemporary library experience, along with extended operating hours.
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“We understand the inconvenience this closure may cause, but please know that we are completely focused on providing a better equipped and more accessible library facility for our customers,” said Dr. Rhea Brown Lawson Executive Director at Houston Public Library in a press release.
Several safety and facility issues cannot be resolved within a reasonable timeframe, according to a press release. Among the workplace safety concerns, one example is the non-functioning elevator on the second floor poses a workplace safety concern and prevents public access due to non-compliance with ADA accessibility standards.
“Although the doors may close, the knowledge and memories shared within the walls of Freed-Montrose Neighborhood Library will forever endure. I look forward to welcoming customers to the new library later this year,” said Lawson in the press release.
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Customers are encouraged to explore alternative library locations and online services for their reading and informational needs. Before April 4, customers can still return books at the book drop. The nearest library branches to the Montrose community during this transition period are:
- Central Library, located 2.6 miles away at 500 McKinney St.
- Smith Neighborhood Library, located 3.0 miles away at 3624 Scott St.
- Looscan Neighborhood Library, located 3.6 miles away at 2510 Willowick Rd.
For more information or assistance, customers can contact Ask HPL customer service at 832-393-1313 or visit houstonlibrary.org.
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