Library Features: What's New @ The Library
Part of the renovation includes the construction of a makerspace.
EBPL Completes Brief Renovation
To meet the ever changing needs of the community, East Brunswick Public Library is briefly closing to the public for two weeks, starting on Monday, August 14.
Since East Brunswick Public Library first opened the doors of its current location in 1976, it has been one of the busiest libraries in central New Jersey. To meet the ever changing needs of the community, East Brunswick Public Library is briefly closing to the public for two weeks, starting on Monday, August 14.
“This short-term closure allows us to efficiently make these changes to the building,” said Jennifer Podolsky, Library Director. “Our library is the information center of our community, and this project will allow our customers to have a better experience at the library.”
There will be several updated features throughout the building, including:
- The creation of a makerspace programming room, complete with audio recording studio
- A new information services desk
- A more convenient circulation desk
- New lounge furniture in the center of the library and outside of the group study rooms
- New carpeting throughout the building.
The library anticipates reopening on Tuesday, August 29. The project is funded by a combination of funds from the library and the Friends of the East Brunswick Public Library.
While the library is closed, feel free to stop by any of the other libraries that are part of the Libraries of Middlesex Automation Consortium, as you can use your EBPL library card there. We also offer tens of thousands of eBooks, audiobooks, magazines, comics, movies and television shows through our digital resources, which you can access on your computer, smartphone or tablet.
The library thanks everyone for their patience and support while we complete this project. For more information about the project, please read the following:
EAST BRUNSWICK PUBLIC LIBRARY RENOVATION FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
When is the library closing?East Brunswick Public Library is briefly closed to the public for two weeks beginning Monday, August 14 to allow for interior renovations.
When is the library reopening?
The library anticipates reopening on Tuesday, August 29 at 9 am. Check the library website, Facebook and Twitter for updates.
Why is the library closing?
During the closure, the library will be completing several renovations to improve the building, including the creation of a makerspace. This exciting new space will be the site of several future programs, ranging in topics from technology to crafting. The makerspace will also feature a special audio recording studio and lendable learning and tech kits.
Other parts of the renovation include:
- New flooring surface
- New circulation desk
- New information desk
- New lounge furniture by the current reference desk and outside of the group study rooms
Yes. Since East Brunswick Public Library is a member of the Libraries of Middlesex County Automation Consortium (LMxAC), library cardholders can visit, check out items at and use library resources at 30 other area libraries. Some of the nearby libraries include South River Public Library (55 Appleby Avenue, South River), Spotswood Public Library (528 Main Street, Spotswood), Milltown Public Library (20 West Church Street, Milltown) and Monroe (4 Municipal Plaza, Monroe Township). A complete list of LMxAC member libraries can be found here.
How can I return library books?
The library’s book and media drops are closed during the project, and customers will not be charged any fines at this time. If you wish to return your library items during the closure, you can return them at any of the other LMxAC libraries, the closest being Spotswood, Milltown, South River and Monroe.
To help make this easier, all Items checked out before the closure will have an extended circulation period. The due dates will be between Tuesday, September 5 and Sunday, September 10.
Can I place books on hold while the library is closed?
Yes. Holds can be placed anytime, and if desired, the pick-up location can be changed to another library in the consortium. HOWEVER, holds on EBPL owned items will be paused on Monday, August 7 through Friday, September 1. Holds on EBPL owned items will be filled beginning Tuesday, September 5. You will not lose their place in the hold queue.
Will I be able to check out eBooks during the closure?
Yes. While closed, the library offers several different digital resources through its website www.ebpl.org. Cardholders can access digital library materials through several different services hoopla digital (provides eBooks, audiobooks, movies, television programs, music and comics), eLibrary NJ (provides eBooks and audiobooks) and RB Digital (magazines). They can also hundreds of different continuing education classes on Universal Class, ranging from finance to genealogy to web development.
Can I make a meeting room reservation at this time?
Meeting room requests will be suspended during this closure.
Can I drop off book donations?
Friends of the Library booksale donations will not be accepted at this time.
Will the Passport Office be open during the renovation?
No. The Passport Office will be closed during the renovation. The nearest passport acceptance centers are in Old Bridge Public Library and the Middlesex County Clerk’s Office in New Brunswick.
