Book lovers, computer users, and others who use the Eden Prairie Library will get an additional 20 hours a week to access library services beginning Oct. 24.
The expanded schedule of open hours means additional access most evenings and on Friday when the Eden Prairie Library is currently closed.
With the new schedule, the library will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays instead of closing at 5 p.m. The new Friday hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Unchanged are hours for Saturdays, 9-to-5, and Sundays, noon-to-5.
The expanded hours extend to nearly all libraries that are part of the Hennepin County Library system. Like Eden Prairie, the largest libraries will have hours extended to 20 hours per week. Most other libraries will have an increase of eight hours per week. The schedules for all libraries are at www.hclib.org.
With these changes, the libraries are working toward restoring hours to pre-pandemic levels and adjusting schedules at some locations to better meet patron needs, said Erica Skinner, a spokesperson for Hennepin County Library.
Additional services for youth and families are a particular focus of the extended hours, she added.
In-person storytime is resuming, but only at a few libraries in Minneapolis. Face coverings continue to be required for all library visitors and staff.
The Eden Prairie Library is located at 565 Prairie Center Drive, south of Eden Prairie Shopping Center.