For the first time in decades, perhaps ever, the Fremont Branch of the Seattle Public Library will be open on Sundays in 2013, starting January 6th. For the first time in at least a century, all locations of the Seattle Public Library System (SPL) will be open Sundays from 1p – 5p, thanks to funding from a levy approved by voters in August 2012.
“At community meetings and through patron surveys, we heard that Sunday hours were important,” City Librarian Marcellus Turner said. “Particularly for families, working people and students, having Library service available in every neighborhood on Sunday will be a huge benefit.”
To promote the expanded hours, between January 6th and May 5th each branch of the SPL will host a special celebration featuring a children’s craft activity, refreshments, and an opportunity to participate in the Check-Out Sundays Challenge. The Fremont Branch celebration will take place on February 10th, from 2p – 3:30p.
The Check-Out Challenge card comes in a keepsake sleeve and can be picked-up at any SPL branch. Visit any SPL branch on a Sunday to get a stamp on the card, between Jan 6th & May 5th, and request a commemorative sticker as well. Collect 15 stamps on a card, and enter into a prize drawing to take place in May 2013 for a ‘Booklovers Basket’ or lunch with City Librarian Turner.
Also in January 2013, find five new SPL membership card designs. Four of the cards feature photos of iconic Seattle sites: Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, Mount Rainier, and the Central Library. Another special card, for children, has also been designed. SPL will also continue to carry its ‘classic’ card design, with the official library logo. Patrons can replace their current card for a new design in 2013 without charge.
For more information on any SPL programs, services, or branch hours, call 206/386-4636 or visit the website.